Cayenne peppers contain capsaicin, a compound that helps fight inflammation and pain. In fact, cayenne peppers are used to relieve symptoms of arthritis, including joint stiffness, swelling, and pain.
Capsaicin works by blocking the release of chemicals called prostaglandins that cause inflammation. Prostaglandins are produced when we get injured, so cayenne peppers help reduce the amount of prostaglandins released during injury. This reduces the pain associated with injuries.
Cayenne peppers also contain antioxidants, which protect cells from damage caused by free radicals. Free radicals are molecules that attack healthy cells and cause them to age prematurely. Antioxidants prevent this process.
Finally, cayenne peppers contain vitamin C, which strengthens bones and teeth. Vitamin C also boosts immunity, helping our bodies fight off infections.
In short, cayenne peppers fight arthritis by reducing the production of prostaglandins, protecting cells from free radical damage, strengthening bone and tooth structure, and boosting immunity.
Here are five benefits of using cayenne pepper regularly.
Fight Arthritis
Arthritis is one of the most common conditions affecting older adults. According to the Arthritis Foundation, nearly 50 million Americans suffer from arthritis.
While there is no cure for arthritis, there are several treatments available to relieve pain and inflammation associated with the condition. One such treatment is cayenne pepper.
Research shows that cayenne pepper contains capsaicin, an active ingredient that helps fight inflammation. Capsaicin works by blocking the release of substances called prostaglandins, which cause swelling and pain.
In addition to relieving pain, cayenne pepper may also improve mobility and flexibility.
Boost Immunity
Cayenne pepper is also known to boost immunity. This is especially helpful for those suffering from colds, flu, and other infections.
According to the National Institutes of Health, cayenne pepper contains compounds that stimulate the immune system. These compounds include capsaicin, piperine, and thymol.
These compounds help strengthen the immune system, helping prevent infection and illness.
Lower Blood Pressure
Many people use cayenne pepper to control their blood pressure. The same compound found in cayenne pepper that boosts immunity also lowers blood pressure.
Studies show that capsaicin reduces blood pressure by relaxing blood vessels. In fact, research published in the Journal of Hypertension showed that capsaicin lowered systolic blood pressure by 7 mm Hg and diastolic blood pressure by 4 mm Hg after six weeks.
Treat Diabetes
Diabetes affects millions of people worldwide. While there is no cure for diabetes, many people use cayenne peppers to manage symptoms associated with the condition.
A study published in the journal Diabetologia showed that capsaicin reduced fasting glucose levels by 2 mg/dl. Fasting glucose refers to the amount of sugar in the bloodstream before eating.
The researchers concluded that capsaicin could potentially be used to reduce the risk of developing type 2 diabetes.
Prevent Heart Disease
Heart disease is another major concern among American adults. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), approximately 610,000 people die each year due to cardiovascular diseases.
Researchers at the University of Texas Medical Branch found that capsaicin can lower cholesterol levels. They discovered that capsaicin helped block the absorption of dietary fats into the bloodstream.
This means that capsaicin may help prevent heart disease by reducing the risk of high cholesterol levels.
Reduce Pain
Capsaicin is also commonly used to treat pain. It’s often recommended as a natural alternative to prescription medications.
Some studies suggest that capsaicin may be effective in treating neuropathic pain, including nerve damage caused by cancer chemotherapy or shingles.
However, it should be noted that capsaicin does not provide relief for chronic pain.
For example, capsaicin cannot replace traditional painkillers like ibuprofen or aspirin. Instead, it only treats acute pain.
Help Digestion
Capsaicin may also help ease digestive problems. A study published in the International Journal of Food Sciences & Nutrition suggests that capsaicin may increase appetite and aid digestion.
The researchers found that capsaicin increased gastric emptying time, which is the time it takes food to leave the stomach.
They also found that capsaicin improved intestinal motility, which is the movement of food through the intestines.
Cayenne Pepper for Acid Reflux
Acid Reflux is an extremely common problem that affects more than 50 million Americans. If you suffer from this condition, you know how painful it can be.
But did you know that cayenne pepper has been shown to help relieve symptoms?
In one study, researchers gave participants either a placebo or capsules containing cayenne pepper extract. After four weeks, those who took cayenne experienced significant improvements in symptoms such as burning, chest pains, and difficulty swallowing.
So if you’re suffering from acid reflux, consider adding cayenne pepper to your diet. You might find that it helps alleviate some of the discomforts.
Cayenne Pepper Can Help With Weight Loss
How do you feel about spicy foods? Are they good for you or bad for you?
Well, there are actually two sides to the story. Some research shows that capsaicin can cause weight loss. But other studies have found no evidence that cayenne peppers promote weight loss.
One reason why capsaicin may affect weight loss is that it stimulates metabolism. This means that when you eat something with capsaicin, your body burns calories faster.
Another possible explanation is that capsaicin increases hunger. So eating more could lead to weight gain. However, most experts agree that capsaicin doesn’t promote weight loss.
Cayenne Pepper May Be Good For Your Skin
Capsaicin can also improve skin health. In fact, it may even protect against sunburns.
A study published in the journal Photochemistry and Photobiology found that capsaicin protects cells from UV radiation. The results showed that capsaicin protected human skin cells from DNA damage.
It seems that capsaicin may reduce inflammation and irritation. This makes sense since many people use cayenne pepper to soothe sore muscles and joints.
n conclusion, cayenne pepper has been used for centuries as a natural remedy for a variety of ailments. From treating colds and flu to helping with digestion, it’s easy to see why it’s become such a popular spice around the globe.
While cayenne pepper certainly won’t cure all of your problems, it can help you manage them and keep you healthier overall. So next time you’re craving a hot meal, grab a bottle of cayenne pepper and add it to your cooking. You’ll be amazed at how much flavor it adds without adding calories!
