Sichuan pepper, or Sichuan peppercorn, is a commonly used spice in Sichuan cuisine. It has slight lemony overtones and creates Sichuan pepper, or Sichuan peppercorn, is a commonly used spice in Sichuan cuisine. It has slight lemony overtones and creates a tingly numbness in the mouth. It is often used to stimulate the taste buds, warm the body, get rid of cold and dampness and protect the stomach and spleen.