Ginger and chili pepper are not just ordinary spices. Aside from their culinary uses, they are also known for their medicinal application. Numerous benefits can be obtained from these spices when you consume them individually. But when ginger and chili pepper are consumed together, more benefits can be acquired since this combination could also prevent cancer, according to a study published in the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry.
Present in chili peppers and ginger are bioactive compounds called capsaicin and 6-gingerol. They the ones responsible for the numerous health benefits that ginger and chili peppers have. Studies have shown that 6-gingerol has potent anticancer properties while some researchers believed that capsaicin, which is present in chili peppers, might also be an anti-carcinogenic.
The study aims to know whether the combination of ginger and chili pepper would exhibit anticancer properties like 6-gingerol or if it would promote tumor growth.
Researchers conducted the study using a mouse that had high lung cancer risk. There were three setups used: one where only 6-gingerol was given, another for capsaicin alone, and lastly, a setup where both 6-gingerol and capsaicin were given.
After several weeks, researchers observed the tumor development in the lungs of the mice.
Here are the results:
- For the capsaicin-setup only: all mice exhibited tumor growth in their lungs.
- For the 6-gingerol-only setup: 50% of the mice developed tumors.
- Both 6-gingerol and capsaicin setup: only 20% of the mice developed tumors.
Based on the results, it was found that when the two spices are administered in tandem, 6-gingerol binds to capsaicin to create a stronger and more stable compound that binds to cell receptors that promote tumor growth, thus inhibiting their activity.
Ginger only exhibits potent anticancer effects when consumed alone. Yet, once it is combined with chili peppers, it becomes so much more effective.
Other Health Benefits Of Ginger And Chili Peppers
Preventing Neurodegenerative Diseases
Ginger is rich in antioxidants and phytochemicals that have anti-inflammatory properties, which protect the brain from age-related damage.
Relieving Nausea
Studies show that ginger can be effective against morning sickness and post-surgery nausea.
Promoting Weight Loss
The capsaicin content of chili peppers can improve your metabolism by promoting processes that utilize energy and burn calories. Additionally, eating chili peppers can also suppress appetite and alter proteins involved in fat accumulation.
Improving Digestion
According to studies, capsaicin is good for digestion. Chili peppers neutralize stomach acids that cause ulcers and also stimulate the production of saliva and bile that are necessary for digestion.
Maintaining Good Heart Health
Chili peppers and ginger can both reduce harmful cholesterol levels in the blood and improve blood flow by allowing the dilation of blood vessels.
