Black or white pepper is actually good for you and can be used several different ways and not only for cooking. Some people apply black pepper directly to the skin when they have nerve pain. Some people actually take black pepper fro stomach upset, cancer and bronchitis. Black and white pepper is used for controlling germs and can be used in the stomach to increase the flow of digestive juices. In some studies, it has been said that black and white pepper can help protect you against colon cancer and it also might help to promote liver cancer. There is really not much evidence of either one and they are still studying this. Side Effects: It has been reported that if you taken large amounts of black pepper by mouth it can actually get in your lungs and cause death. If you are breastfeeding or pregnant you should avoid a large amount of black pepper. In a few cases, this has triggered a miscarriage. Furthermore, not enough is known about black pepper and they advise you not to put it on your skin if you are pregnant. Hope this helps. There aren't that many side effect of using black pepper except if you get too much on your food, it can cause your mouth to burn.