Due to its taste properties, we place it among spices. It is supposed to improve the taste, but its place is also among home remedies. Cayenne pepper is a remedy for many ailments. Thanks to the content of capsaicin, it will speed up metabolic processes, i.e. it will help the body burn fat. What else can cayenne pepper do?
Its most valuable ingredient is the already mentioned capsaicin, a chemical compound that is “guilty” for the spicy taste of chili pepper. The reason why we feel burning after eating something with the addition of this hot spice is the effect of this substance on nociceptors, i.e. pain receptors, which are located, among others, in the oral cavity.
Spicy spice as a way to slim figure
Thanks to capsaicin, cayenne pepper will speed up our metabolism, thanks to which we will lose weight faster. In addition, it increases thermogenesis, i.e. heat production by the body, which will also contribute to increased energy burning by our body.
What’s more, the use of cayenne pepper only occasionally and in small amounts can effectively suppress appetite (mainly for sweet, fatty and salty foods). Unfortunately, regular use of this spice in too high doses will only make our body more and more resistant to capsaicin, so it may not have any effect on the weight loss process. In addition, its consumption in higher doses can cause damage to the digestive tract and liver.
What else can cayenne pepper help with?
First of all, it has an anti-inflammatory effect, thanks to which it will soothe arthritis. This is because capsaicin inhibits the action of the neuropeptide responsible for the formation of inflammation. In addition, the analgesic effect of cayenne pepper has been proven, as it relieves pain in the course of diabetic neuropathy and headaches.
It is worth knowing that this is another natural ingredient that supports the fight against cancer. Scientists from the University of Nottingham have proven that capsaicin eliminates the mitochondria that cause the division and growth of cancer cells. Cayenne pepper supports many processes in the body:
- Action of the digestive system – stimulates faster blood circulation in the stomach, stimulates the stomach cells to produce protective juices that help in the treatment and prevention of peptic ulcer disease. In addition, it eliminates flatulence, stimulates digestive processes, has a bactericidal effect, thanks to which it will protect our body against some types of food poisoning.
- Circulatory system – prevents the accumulation of platelets in the arteries, protects against the formation of blood clots, lowers cholesterol. So it is a way to protect against stroke and heart attack.
- Supporting immunity – it strengthens our immunity, it can also be used for mild colds, because it will reduce the swelling of the nasal mucosa, clear a stuffy nose, stimulate the secretion of mucus. It is not recommended to use it for long-term colds, because it could deepen the weakening of the body.