Atherosclerosis is a common disorder in which fatty deposits, such as cholesterol and fat, begin to collect on artery walls. Over time, this fatty material hardens through the formation of calcium deposits, and if gone untreated, the accumulation of plaque may completely block blood flow. Risk factors of developing atherosclerosis include excessive alcohol use, high-fat diet, high blood pressure, smoking and obesity. While this condition must be treated under your doctor's supervision, the scientific community suggests cayenne has the potential of treating or preventing plaque buildup.
Cayenne Active Properties
Capsaicin is the primary active constituent in cayenne, and scientists believe it is responsible for this herb's health benefits. Capsaicin is commonly used as a topical ointment for various skin ailments as it directly affects the transmission of substance P, which is responsible for transporting pain signals to the brain. Other compounds found in cayenne include flavonoids, carotenoids as well as vitamins A and C.
Evidence
Proponents of cayenne claim this herb and its active compounds may treat various circulatory problems, such as atherosclerosis. Animal studies suggest capsaicin may indirectly reduce atherosclerosis by lowering blood pressure and reducing plaque thickness. A study outlined by the Nigerian Tribune found animals who were fed a high capsaicin diet experienced a significant reduction in blood pressure after consuming this herb for 5 to 7 months. The August 2010 issue of "Cell Metabolism" journal found capsaicin supplements increased nitric oxide production in rats, which resulted in a reduction of blood pressure as nitric oxide is believed to prevent blood vessel inflammation. A study cited in the June 2003 issue of the "Clinica Chimica Acta" or "International Journal of Clinical Chemistry" found dietary red pepper, such as cayenne, reduced the thickness and density of atherosclerosis in rabbits. While this information has not been proved in humans, it is promising regarding the effectiveness of cayenne; however, more research is required to determine the true value of cayenne on atherosclerosis.
Recommended Daily Dosage
While there is no standard dosage of cayenne for the treatment or prevention of atherosclerosis, the University of Maryland Medical Center suggests consuming 30 to 120 mg of capsaicin up to three times per day. Make sure the supplement contains a minimum capsaicin concentration of 0.075 percent.
Warnings
Talk with your doctor regarding the use of cayenne to treat or prevent atherosclerosis. While cayenne is considered safe, if you are taking aspirin, stomach acid reducers, ACE inhibitors or blood-thinning medications, use extreme caution when using or avoid using cayenne supplements.
References
- PubMed Health; Atherosclerosis; May 2010
- "Cell Metabolism"; Activation of TRPV1 by Dietary Capsaicin Improves Endothelium-Dependent Vasorelaxation and Prevents Hypertension; Y. Dachun, et al.; August 2010
- Nigerian Tribune; Long-Term Consumption of Chili Pepper Reduces Blood Pressure; Sade Oguntola; August 2010
- University of Maryland Medical Center; Cayenne; Steven D. Ehrlich; November 2008
- "International Journal of Clinical Chemistry"; Red Pepper Attenuates Cholesteryl Ester Transfer Protein Activity and Atherosclerosis in Choesterol-Fed Rabbits; Myung-Ja Kwon, et al.; June 2003
