Surprising Spice

—  Benefits of Cayenne —
Pepper Power

 

I frequently use cayenne on many of my favorite foods, from juices to live crackers to soup.  Long used as a food additive to flare up food, cayenne has many favorable effects on human health.  With so many benefits, perhaps it is time to turn up the heat?

Abundant in vitamin C, a potent antioxidant that reduces damage to the cells caused by oxidative stress; high doses of vitamin C is great for immunity and is helpful for cancer, it enhances iron absorption and collagen production and is good for the nervous system.  Containing other valuable plant compounds such as flavonoids and carotenoids, cayenne is known to enhance athletic performance, encourage weight loss and lower blood sugar levels.  Also rich in vitamin A, an important carotenoid for healthy eyes, bones, skin, nails and hair. 

With many healthful compounds, cayenne has been shown to be beneficial for heart health.   Its regular intake may even contribute to the improved intake of certain nutrients and increase longevity over the long term.  Known for an important compound, called capsaicin, it is also a natural pain reliever and anti-inflammatory.  This unique compound is known not only to relieve heart burn, but in a July 2006 article in “Critical Reviews in Food Science and Nutrition,” it is cited as killing harmful bacteria that can infect the stomach lining.  Helicobacter pylori is one of those bacterium and is partly responsible for gastric ulcers.   Through the elimination of unfriendly organisms from the digestive tract, consuming cayenne may reduce the likelihood of developing an ulcer and aid in its management by regulating the production of stomach acid while encouraging the production of more protective digestive secretions. Besides being antibacterial, it is also known to be anti-fungal.  Cayenne can also be placed directly on a cut to help curtail or even stop the bleeding and can help expedite wound healing.  

Very versatile, cayenne complements many sweet and savory dishes. I frequently add it to  tea, fruit juices or smoothies, sprinkle it on veggies, enjoy it in chili, soups or even cornbread and corn chips.  It’s delicious in dressings, marinades or other savory sauces and makes for an excellent fire cider or spicy cacao.  For a flare of heat and a host of benefits, what will you add cayenne to?

As a side note, if you are new to chilies, I recommend starting slow. Be mindful of not touching your face, especially your eyes and nose after handling chilies or chili pepper.  Adding a dash here and there may result in positive health effects both in the short and the long term.  Don’t overdo it and remember that eating it as a whole food or as a ground powder is always better than in a capsule form.   

Sources and Resources:

Abdel Salam, G Mózsik, J Szolcsányi  National Library of Medicine:  PubMed:  Studies on the effect of intragastric capsaicin on gastric ulcer and on the prostacyclin-induced cytoprotection in rats October 1995 https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/8866836/

Edwards, Michael. Organic Lifestyle: Cayenne and Capsaicin, Natures Miracle Medicine  May 22, 2014.  https://www.organiclifestylemagazine.com/cayenne-and-capsaicin-natures-miracle-medicine

Kubala, Julian.  Healthline:  6 Potential Benefits of Cayenne Pepper.  Nov 10, 2021  https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/8-benefits-of-cayenne-pepper

Roth, Erica.  Livestrong.com Nutrition: Cooking and Baking: Herbs and Spices:  The Effects of Cayenne Pepper on Ulcers  https://www.livestrong.com/article/155203-the-effects-of-cayenne-pepper-on-ulcers/

Cayenne Pepper Info:  Your Cayenne Pepper Guide:  107 Specific Health Benefits of Cayenne Pepper: How It Can Help You http://www.cayennepepper.info/health-benefits-of-cayenne-pepper.html

Disclaimer:

These statements have not been evaluated by the U.S. FDA.    Supplements are not encouraged and can have serious side effects.  Foods are not drugs and are not intended to prevent, treat, or cure any disease. Before considering any new regime, you are advised to consult with a licensed medical professional.