Aframomum melegueta, popularly known as alligator pepper is a spice used in cuisines and can also be taken raw. It is native to West Africa and is mostly used for cultural purposes. However, it can serve some medicinal purposes as shall be seen below. However, it is not advisable to be taken by pregnant women.

1. Contains antioxidants:

Alligator pepper is a good source of antioxidants and other compounds such as alkaloids, flavonoids, tannins, saponin, terpenoids, and phenolic. These antioxidants help to fight off free radicals and protect the body from infections and diseases.

2. Fight inflammation:

The gingerol in alligator pepper contains antiinflammatory properties which inhibits leukotriene and prostaglandis synthesis in the body.

3. Serves as an analgesic:

The aqueous compound in alligator pepper is analgesic in nature and can be used to relieve pains such as stomach pain, rheumatoid pain, arthritic pain, tooth ache and also menstrual pain.

4. Improves digestive health:

Consuming alligator pepper can aid in easy digestion of food, consequently preventing constipation and bloating. It can also be used to treat gastrointestinal disorders such as stomach pain, ulcer, intestinal worms, and diarrhea.

5. Enhances healing of the wound:

In a case of injury, alligator pepper seeds can be crushed and used for preparing concoction for treatment. The high amount of tannin in it is effective for healing wounds, treating burns and soothing inflamed mucous membrane.

6. Contains antimicrobial properties:

Due to the phenolic compounds in alligator pepper which has antimicrobial properties, alligator pepper is a good source of combating and inhibiting the growth of bacteria such as Salmonella typhi, Staphylococcus aereus, and Klebsiella Pneumonia.

7. Contains aphrodisiac properties:

In this case, alligator pepper is both good for the males and females. For the men, it can cause them to have delayed ejaculation while boosting the libido in women.