Cayenne pepper has been used for thousands of years, according to the George Mateljan Foundation's information service World's Healthiest Foods. In the fifteenth and sixteenth centuries, black pepper was very costly, and cayenne pepper was often used to provide spice to a meal. The pepper is part of the capiscum family, which also includes chili peppers. This potent spice can provide a variety of health benefits to people who like to eat spicy food. Cayenne pepper can also lend healing properties when used as a topical preparation.
Pain Relief
The substance called capsaicin that is found in cayenne pepper can be a natural, alternative way to relief pain when used in a topical solution. World's Healthiest Foods reports that capsaicin creams may be effective in treating pain associated with arthritis, psoriasis and some types of headaches. People who apply ointments derived from cayenne pepper may suffer side effects such as temporary burning at the site of application.
Reduced Inflammation
People who like a little heat with their food may gain the benefit of reduced inflammation throughout the body. Capsaicin provide the hot taste and sensation that's packed into cayenne pepper but it also halts the inflammation process by inhibiting something called substance P. The amount of heat in each individual pepper corresponds directly to the benefit of reduced inflammation that the consumer will receive. The hot factor of the pepper can also reduce inflammation of the nasal membranes and ease congestion.
Cardiovascular Health
Cayenne pepper eaters may be healthier when it comes to cardiovascular health than their counterparts who do not routinely ingest chili peppers. The nutrients in cayenne help lower high cholesterol levels naturally, and can be effective in lowering the risk of blood clotting.
Aids Weight Loss
People who eat cayenne pepper may lose weight easier than others. The feeling of warmth that spreads across the body after eating a hot pepper boosts the metabolism and burns energy, according to www.WHFoods.org. Increased calories may be burned for as long as 20 minutes after eating cayenne pepper.
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