Cayenne pepper is more than just its hot taste. This powerful natural remedy has been enjoyed by men and women for thousands of years.
The heat and health benefit of cayenne pepper comes from capsaicin, a compound that’s distilled from the fruit of the plant Capsicum annuum.
Studies now support what traditional medicine has known for centuries, that cayenne pepper aids digestion, boosts metabolism and helps to keep heart disease down and pain at a comfortable level.
Vitamin C and provitamin A carotenoids are particularly abundant in chili peppers, such as cayenne peppers.
Alpha and beta carotene, two provitamin A carotenoids present in cayenne, can be transformed by the body into the active form of vitamin A.
This article discusses the main cayenne pepper benefits that have been supported by science as well as safe ways to include it into your daily routine if you’ve ever wondered why it’s regarded as a superfood.
Cayenne Pepper for Digestive Health
The beneficial effects of cayenne pepper on digestion are among its most unexpected health advantages. By promoting the synthesis of gastric juices and digestive enzymes, capsaicin facilitates the body’s absorption of nutrients.
Additionally, it increases salivation, which speeds up digestion. Cayenne pepper may actually shield the stomach lining and combat harmful bacteria in the gut, defying the stereotype that hot foods lead to ulcers.
Boosts Metabolism and Aids Weight Loss
It heats the body, is thermogenic in nature and is great for weight loss. Capsaicin also stimulates the body to generate more heat, even when at rest and as a result, calorie expenditure increases.
Studies suggest that adding cayenne pepper to meals may reduce calorie intake and curb hunger, aiding weight loss over time.
Natural Pain Relief with Capsaicin
One common ingredient found in capsaicin creams and painkiller patches is cayenne pepper.
Improves Circulation and Heart Health
Cayenne pepper serves as a natural circulatory stimulant. It improves circulation and blood circulation by increasing the size of blood vessels and lowering blood clot risk. By enhancing circulation and blood flow, nutrients and oxygen can be delivered more effectively to the tissues in the body.
Immune System Support
Through vitamins A and C, cayenne pepper will help boost immunity. Vitamin C increases the activity of white blood cells, and vitamin A keeps mucous membranes such as in the nose and lungs healthy.
Their combined actions in cayenne pepper help to support a powerful fight against infections, flu, and cold. Cayenne also consists of antibacterial elements which also contribute to support immunity.
Detoxifying Properties
Cayenne pepper is a common ingredient in detox diets because of its ability to stimulate circulation, increase perspiration, and improve the movement of lymphatic fluid. This helps eliminate toxins from the body naturally while increasing overall energy.
Relieves Congestion Naturally
Have you ever found that after you eat spicy food, your nose runs? That is cayenne pepper doing its job. Capsaicin thins mucus, which opens up your nasal passages and helps relieve congestion. This is especially helpful for:
- Cold and flu symptoms
- Sinus infections
- Seasonal allergies
A pinch of cayenne pepper mixed with warm water and honey can also help with a sore throat.
Anti-Inflammatory Effects
Chronic inflammation relates to illnesses, such as arthritis, diabetes, and heart disease. Regular consumption of capsaicin has been shown to reduce plasma inflammatory markers in the body and chronic inflammatory illness incidence.
Regular consumption of cayenne pepper may protect against chronic inflammatory-related illness by providing monthly to weekly anti-inflammatory consumption.
Boosts Energy and Mood
Cayenne pepper can help the body, and also help the mind. Eating spicy food, like cayenne pepper, increases endorphins and dopamine, which are both “feel-good” hormones, in the brain.
This feels good and can lower stress while creating a feeling of well-being. Because cayenne increases circulation, it’s likely it will give you more energy and better alertness.
Skin and Hair Health
Topical applications of cayenne pepper are believed to improve skin and scalp circulation. This may:
- Stimulate hair growth by nourishing hair follicles
- Improve skin elasticity
- Reduce signs of aging
- Caution is necessary, however cayenne pepper must always be diluted in oils or creams to prevent irritation.
Conclusion
Cayenne pepper is not just a spice found in the kitchen, it is a natural medicine with remarkable benefits.
Cayenne pepper is a true super spice, as it has benefits such as boosting metabolism and providing weight loss support, pain relief, improving heart health, bringing down inflammation and natural immune support.
It will add heat to your meal and in moderate amounts, have a positive effect on your long term health and wellness.
