The Health Benefits of Cayenne Peppers

Cayenne pepper is a hot and red chili pepper. Named after the city of Cayenne in French Guiana, cayenne pepper is a close relative of bell peppers and jalapeno peppers. It is primarily used to add flavor to dishes and for medicinal purposes.

Cayenne peppers are often dried and ground into powder before being used in cooking. They add zest to both savory and sweet dishes. They can also be pulped and baked into cakes.

Cayenne peppers have been used in various herbal and medicinal treatments over centuries. Here are some health benefits of cayenne peppers that might convince you to the add the peppers to your regular diet.

Benefits of Cayenne Peppers

Cayenne peppers are rich in capsaicin, a pungent and resinous substance that gives the pepper its heat. If externally applied on skin, capsaicin can temporarily inhibit pain nerves by allowing more neurotransmitters to be released. Patients of fibromyalgia, shingles and rheumatoid arthritis can use cayenne peppers for pain relief.
The capsaicin in cayenne peppers helps clear mucus from congested lungs or a stuffy nose.
Cayenne peppers are believed to treat various digestive problems such as constipation, gas, cramps and stomach pain.
Some studies show that the peppers aid in losing weight and burning fat.
Cayenne peppers have antifungal properties. Studies show that they are active against fungal pathogens like collectotrichum and phomopsis.
Cayenne pepper also helps maintain a healthy circulatory system. It carries essential nutrients that strengthen the cell structure of blood vessels in the body. This is why eating cayenne peppers helps individuals with high blood pressure and high cholesterol levels.
Cayenne peppers are also beneficial for pregnant women. They relieve morning sickness and naturally induce labor before delivery.
Cayenne pepper powder when mixed with honey can be used as a gargle to relieve and treat sore throat, heartburn, cough and tonsillitis.