What is "piperic acid"

n. (context organic compound English) An acid, derived from piperine, that is an intermediate in the synthesis of other compounds such as piperonal.

Piperic acid is a chemical often obtained by the base- hydrolysis of the alkaloid piperine from black pepper, followed by acidification of the corresponding salt. Piperic acid is an intermediate in the synthesis of other compounds such as piperonal, and as-such may be used to produce fragrances, perfumes flavorants and drugs as well as other useful compounds.