Long pepper finds a wide range of applications in Ayurveda. It is used as a "Rasayana" in the treatment of respiratory disorders and also as an important constituent in digestive formulations. Ayurveda uses it as an ingredient of Trikatu (three pungent herbs). Individually long pepper is used in correcting digestive disturbances and minor respiratory ailments. Trikatu is an important constituent in many Ayurvedic formulations. Experimental studies suggest that Trikatu increases bioavailability of the substances administered along with them.
The fruits contain volatile oil, resin and alkaloids piperine and piperlonguminine.