Capsaicin is responsible for hot peppers spicy kicks. The more capsaicin it contains, the hotter it is.
You can find capsaicin in every part of the pepper except for the seeds. Its highest concentration is in the inner wall where the seeds are attached. Though it has no dietary content, such as additional nutrients or calories, a massive and ever-growing body of research supports its health benefits.
Here Are Some Of The Health Benefits Of Capsaicin That You Need To Know
Reduces Cancer Risk
Capsaicin has a profound antiproliferative effect on different types of cancer, including breast and prostate. It is a powerful tool against cancer.
The spread of cancer cells, as well as cause apoptosis (cell death), can significantly be stopped by just taking capsaicin orally.
Consider taking capsaicin supplements regularly if you want to keep yourself safe from deadly cancer. You may also include this spice in your cooking.
Helps Weight Loss Efforts
Being a thermogenic agent, capsaicin can increase metabolic activity which in turn, helps burn calories and fat. It can also reduce the production of ghrelin, a hormone responsible for triggering hunger. You should consider eating capsaicin-rich foods if you are trying to lose weight.
Reduces Arthritis Pain
Capsaicin is very effective when it comes to dealing with any kind of arthritic pain. It has an anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties that reduce the swelling and help get rid of the pain.
Mix ½ teaspoon of cayenne pepper powder and 1 tablespoon of lukewarm coconut oil. Apply it on the painful arthritic area and allow it to sit for 20 minutes. Rinse it off with lukewarm water. Do this 2 or 3 times a day.
You can also massage the arthritic area with capsaicin cream, 2 or 3 times a day.
Aids in Pain Management
Capsaicin works as a natural painkiller if you have muscle or joint pain.
Due to its anti-inflammatory effect, capsaicin can help reduce pain and inflammation. It can also prevent the activation of the brain’s pain transmitters, thus reducing the feeling of pain.
Mix ½ teaspoon of ground cayenne pepper and 2 to 3 teaspoons of warm olive or coconut oil. Apply the mixture on the painful area and let it sit for 10 to 15 minutes. Rinse it off. Repeat once or twice daily until the pain is gone.
Boosts Digestive Health
Capsaicin helps in regulating the digestive system and effectively eliminating waste products and toxins.
Moreover, it has also been known for its ability to increase digestive fluid production, boost the stomach’s defense against, and help deliver enzymes to the stomach.
In order for you to fight stomach infection, you can simply mix a pinch of cayenne pepper powder in a glass of water and drink it once a day. You can continue for a few days.
You can also take capsaicin in supplement form but only after consulting your doctor.
Lowers Blood Pressure
High blood pressure puts stress on your heart and arteries, which could lead to numerous diseases from the heart to kidney problems. It’s not something that you should ignore.
The capsaicin in cayenne peppers was found to be an effective remedy to keep your blood pressure under control.
Capsaicin supplements may be taken to keep your blood pressure under control, but make sure to consult your doctor first. You can also use cayenne pepper in your cooking.
Prevents Blood Clots
Capsaicin has a powerful blood-thinning effect. It can increase circulation throughout the body, clear away artery-narrowing lipid deposits, help dilate arteries and blood vessels to clear away clots, and helps lower the concentration of fibrin, an insoluble protein that plays a key role in clot formation.
Simply add fresh, chopped cayenne peppers to stir-fry dishes, stew, and soups. You can also sprinkle ground cayenne pepper on breakfast dishes, salads, and other dishes.
Improves Psoriasis Symptoms
Psoriasis causes patches of red, itchy and scaly skin. There is no cure for this disease, but luckily capsaicin creams can provide relief from itching and improve the appearance of psoriatic patches.
Apply a capsaicin cream on the areas where you have psoriasis, 2 or 3 times a day.
