Cayenne

Cayenne pepper is commonly used in food for its spicy flavoring but it is has also been used as an herbal medicine for thousands of years. Cayenne pepper’s usage was even recommended by the ancient Greek physician Hippocrates.

Cayenne Pepper has a lot of nutrients beneficial to your health. The pepper comes from a hot chile that originates in the South American country of Peru. The peppers are a versatile ingredient, you can simply sprinkle it on your food or eat it raw. The pepper’s versatility make it an effective ingredient in the kitchen but its medicinal benefits make this pepper a stand out.

Cayenne Uses

Cayenne pepper has been used in cooking since ancient times and used medicinally even before modern times. The pepper contains a large amount of capsaicin, which is the substance that makes it hot and spicy. Aside from being used for its medicinal properties, it is also used for its flavor and to brighten up the color of foods. They have a wide range of health benefits beyond their minerals or vitamins content. Mostly the health benefits are offered by capsaicin, a compound that renders the spicy flavor.

Cayenne pepper is also used for many medicinal purposes, including:

• Antioxidant Properties – The pepper contains antioxidants including vitamin C and A, which also helps reduce the risk of certain diseases like arthritis and heart diseases.
• Improves Heart Health – It helps widen the blood vessels in the heart, making the blood flow easier and reducing blood pressure.
• Pain Relief – Capsaicin has powerful pain-relieving properties. It stimulates pain receptors when applied to the skin, soothing the nerves and relieving pain.
• Improves Digestion – The vitamin B helps in the proper breakdown of fats and sugar to release energy which helps regulate metabolism.
• Improves Skin Health – Vitamin C helps repair the skin tissues and promote collagen synthesis which helps improve skin health. It also protects the skin from sun damage. Vitamin A protects your body against skin infections and imparts firmness to your skin.
• Strengthens Immunity – The proteins in cayenne pepper stimulate the synthesis of antibodies resulting in an improved immune response to pathogens.
• Promotes Weight Loss – The pepper helps keep you satiated for a long time.
• Decongestant Properties – Capsaicin in cayenne pepper relieves congestion and is specifically beneficial in bronchitis and nasal congestion. The capsaicin in the cayenne pepper has the property to thin out the mucus which helps to prevent congestion and gives you relief.
• Helps in Bone and Tooth Disorders – Cayenne pepper contains calcium and magnesium, which help in the growth and repair of bones.
• Anti-Cancer Properties – Capsaicin has anti-carcinogenic or anti-cancer properties, which prevent the spread of cancer cells to other tissues. Capsaicin helps to prevent breast, colon, and prostate cancer.
• Improves Vision – Vitamin A is a vital nutrient for your eyes which helps enhance your vision.

Side Effects of Cayenne

Other than the obvious burning sensation around the mouth and lips, there are no known serious side effects or adverse reactions to consuming cayenne peppers.

Excess consumption causes side effects. Studies suggest that adverse effects of capsaicin include:

• Heartburn
• Stomach disorders
• Burning sensation
• Swelling and pain
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Bronchitis
• Dryness

Contraindications Related to Cayenne

The main concern with cayenne pepper is for those with an allergy to the pepper. Reactions may cause:

• Eczema
• Swelling
• Cough
• Urticaria
• Conjunctivitis

Origins of Cayenne

It is believed that the chile plant originated in Bolivia. It was then spread to Peru, and the rest of South America.