CAYENNE PEPPER
For many centuries, cayenne pepper has been used for its many medicinal purposes. Studies have shown that ingestion of capsaicin, which is derived from cayenne peppers, can be used to prevent, alleviate, and fight many common health conditions.
The high levels of vitamin A and vitamin E found in cayenne pepper account for its powerful antioxidant properties. Antioxidants promote healthy organ and brain function, repair damaged skin, combat swelling caused by free radicals, slow the ageing process, help maintain healthy hormone balance and promote healthy cholesterol levels.
Cayenne pepper can also help fight allergies due to high levels of beta-carotene. Studies have shown that beta carotene (which has both antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties) helps break up and eliminate the mucus caused by congestion. Vitamin C, also found in high doses in cayenne pepper, is proven to boost immunity and protect against, among others, the common cold.
Capsaicin’s ability to aid in weight loss has also made cayenne pepper popular. Studies have shown it to increase the body’s ability to burn calories by 51%, and people who consume cayenne pepper are reported to eat 10% less than non-consumers (due to improved levels of satiety). It is also possible that cayenne pepper lowers ghrelin (the ‘hunger hormone’) levels.
By stimulating alkali and mucous secretion, capsaicin helps to prevent and cure gastric stomach ulcers. It can also aid in digestion and help combat bad breath by stimulating the salivary glands.
Furthermore, studies on the medicinal benefits of cayenne pepper indicate that it can contribute to the prevention of heart attacks (myocardial infarction) by promoting effective blood flow in the circulatory system. It is a mild blood thinner and relaxes the blood vessels, which can guard against high blood pressure (hypertension) and the accompanying health risks.
Supplements can provide a powerful dose of capsaicin, the active component in cayenne pepper which offers so many health benefits for a wide range of common health problems.