Cayenne pepper is a spicy red pepper belonging to the chili pepper or Capsicum family. It contains a high concentration of a substance called capsaicin, which gives the pepper its hot flavor. In addition to adding flavor to foods, cayenne pepper has been shown to have a number of health benefits that may surprise you, according to WHFoods.com.
Reduce Inflammation
Capsaicin found in chili peppers has been shown to reduce inflammatory diseases, such as arthritis or diabetic neuropathy, when applied to the skin. The topical form of capsaicin can be rubbed into the skin, which results in a warm feeling, according to USPharmacist.com. According to this site, topical capsaicin penetrates the skin and depletes a substance in the neurons that causes inflammation and pain.
Harm Prostate Cancer Cells
A study published by the American Association for Cancer Research linked the application of capsaicin found in cayenne pepper and inhibited growth in prostate cancer cells. When given orally, capsaicin was found to reduce the size of prostate cancer tumors. Capsaicin also was shown to prevent the growth of cancerous cells in the prostate when taken orally, according to USPharmacist.com
Improve Cardiovascular Health
Cultures whose diet frequently contains cayenne peppers have been shown to have improved heart health than those who do not, according to WHFoods.com. Eating cayenne peppers can have several heart-boosting effects, including lowering cholesterol and triglyceride levels and boosting the level of fibrin in the blood. Fibrin helps to keep blood clots from forming in the blood, which can reduce the occurrence of stroke, heart attack and pulmonary embolism.
Reduce Congestion
People experiencing cold or sinus symptoms, such as chest congestion or stuffy nose, may find relief by eating foods containing cayenne peppers or even by brewing a hot tea that contains cayenne peppers. When ingested, the peppers infiltrate the mucus membranes and encourage drainage from the nose and lungs.
Protects Against Stomach Ulcers
While you might think spicy foods would exacerbate stomach problems, cayenne peppers actually have beneficial effects in preventing stomach ulcer formation. The peppers kill bacteria in the stomach and cause the cells in the stomach to secrete juices that prevent the development of an ulcer.
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