Changing your diet and lifestyle is one of the most effective ways to lower blood pressure. Several foods, including herbs and spices, contain compounds that can treat hypertension, such as cayenne or chili peppers. The active ingredient in these spicy peppers is capsaicin and research shows it is an effective natural remedy for hypertension. However, it can cause a few side effects so consult your doctor before taking it.
About Capsaicin
While capsaicin is better known for its ability to spice up food, it's also available as a supplement in oral or topical form to treat a variety of medical conditions. For instance, it helps stimulate your cardiovascular system, lowers blood pressure and prevents clotting. Capsaicin also prevents hardening of the arteries, or atherosclerosis, which is a complication of high blood pressure and a risk factor for heart disease. Capsaicin is also an antioxidant and helps protect cells from free radical damage.
Evidence
Endothelial cells, which line the inside layer of blood vessels, play a key role in regulating blood pressure. A team of international researchers investigated the effects of long-term dietary capsaicin on hypertensive rats in a study published in the journal "Cell Metabolism" in August 2010. They found that through a series of metabolic processes, capsaicin was able to increase the production of nitric oxide in endothelial cells. Nitric oxide improves endothelial cell function and helps relax and dilate blood vessels.
Dosage
According to the lead author of the "Cell Metabolism" study, it's unclear how much capsaicin you need to take to lower blood pressure. If you buy a supplement, follow the instructions on the package label and do not exceed the recommended daily intake. Ask your doctor for more advice on using this spice safely.
Side Effects
Taking capsaicin capsules or consuming the powder may cause stomach irritation. High doses of capsaicin can lead to stomach pain, and liver or kidney damage. If you have an ulcer or heartburn or you're breastfeeding, do not take capsaicin or consume cayenne. Also, capsaicin may interact with some medications such as medications for stomach acid, aspirin and blood thinners such as heparin or the herbs garlic and ginger.
Considerations
Taking capsaicin should be only one part of your overall plan to lower blood pressure. Other dietary changes such as reducing sodium, refined sugars and saturated and trans fat can also improve hypertension. Also, try to do a moderate-intensity exercise, such as walking, for at least 30 minutes most days of the week.
References
- UW Health: Capsaicin
- "Cell Metabolism"; Activation of TRPV1 by Dietary Capsaicin Improves Endothelium-Dependent Vasorelaxation and Prevents Hypertension; Dachun Yang, et al.; August 2010
- University of Maryland Medical Center: High Blood Pressure: Tips to Stop the Silent Killer
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Cayenne
- Medical News Today: Hypertension And Chili Peppers
