12 Surprising Health Benefits of Cayenne Pepper

Cayenne pepper is a type of chili pepper that is commonly used as a spice in various dishes. Apart from its culinary uses, cayenne has been used for centuries in traditional medicine for its many health benefits. The active ingredient in cayenne pepper is capsaicin, which is responsible for its spicy taste and numerous health benefits. In this article, we will explore the many health benefits of cayenne pepper and the research studies that support them.

1. Relieves Pain

Capsaicin, the active ingredient in cayenne pepper, is an effective natural pain reliever. It works by blocking the chemical signals that transmit pain messages to the brain. Studies have found that capsaicin can be used topically to relieve pain associated with arthritis, shingles, neuropathy, and other conditions. A study published in the Journal of Pain Research found that capsaicin cream effectively reduced pain associated with knee osteoarthritis.

2. Promotes Heart Health

Cayenne pepper is also beneficial for heart health. Capsaicin has been found to help reduce cholesterol levels and blood pressure, two major risk factors for heart disease. A study published in the Journal of Medicinal Food found that cayenne pepper reduced blood pressure in animals, while another study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that it reduced LDL (bad) cholesterol levels in humans.

3. Boosts Metabolism

Cayenne pepper has been found to boost metabolism and promote weight loss. Capsaicin increases the body’s metabolic rate, which leads to more calories being burned. A study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that consuming cayenne pepper with a meal increased fat-burning and reduced appetite in participants.

4. Improves Digestion

Cayenne pepper has also been found to improve digestion. Capsaicin stimulates the production of digestive juices and enzymes, which can help to alleviate symptoms of indigestion and heartburn. A study published in the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry found that cayenne pepper helped to protect the stomach lining and reduce the risk of ulcers.

5. Fights Inflammation

Capsaicin has been found to have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help to reduce inflammation in the body. Chronic inflammation is associated with many health problems, including arthritis, heart disease, and cancer. A study published in the Journal of Inflammation found that capsaicin reduced inflammation in rats with rheumatoid arthritis.

6. Supports Detoxification

Cayenne pepper also supports the body’s natural detoxification processes. It helps to increase blood flow and stimulate the lymphatic system, which can help to remove toxins from the body. A study published in the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine found that capsaicin helped to reduce the levels of certain toxins in the blood.

7. May Have Anti-Cancer Properties

There is some evidence to suggest that capsaicin may have anti-cancer properties. A study published in Cancer Research found that capsaicin inhibited the growth of prostate cancer cells in mice. Another study published in the Journal of Cancer Research and Therapeutics found that capsaicin helped reduce lung cancer cell growth in humans.

8. Relieves Headaches

Capsaicin in cayenne pepper is a natural pain reliever and has been found to alleviate migraine headaches. A study published in Cephalalgia found that capsaicin nasal spray effectively reduced the frequency and severity of migraines.

9. Improves Skin Health 

Cayenne pepper has been found to have antimicrobial properties, which can help to prevent skin infections. Capsaicin has also been found to promote wound healing and reduce inflammation in the skin. A study published in the Journal of Dermatological Treatment found that capsaicin cream effectively reduced itching and inflammation in patients with psoriasis.

10. Boosts Immunity

Cayenne pepper is rich in vitamin C, essential for immune function. Vitamin C has been found to help reduce the duration and severity of colds and flu. Cayenne pepper also contains beta-carotene, which can help to boost immune function and reduce the risk of infections.

11. Improves Respiratory Function

Capsaicin in cayenne pepper has been found to improve respiratory function by reducing inflammation in the airways. A European Journal of Pharmacology study found that capsaicin improved lung function in animals with asthma.

12. Enhances Sexual Health 

Cayenne pepper has been found to have aphrodisiac properties and can help to improve sexual function. Capsaicin has been found to improve blood flow to the genitals, which can help to improve erectile function. A study published in the International Journal of Impotence Research found that capsaicin improved erectile function in men with mild to moderate erectile dysfunction.

Additional Benefits of Cayenne Pepper

Here are just a few of the many conditions that been helped with cayenne according to Earth Clinic readers:

• Arthritis
• Sore Throat
• Sinus Infection
• Tonsillitis
• Laryngitis
• Dry Mouth
• Bleeding
• Digestion
• Ulcers
• Blood Pressure
• Poor Circulation
• Cold Feet

Internal Use of Cayenne Pepper

When using cayenne pepper internally, starting with a smaller dose and gradually increasing it as needed is recommended. A dose as small as 1/8 teaspoon of cayenne pepper can be effective for some conditions. Some people prefer to keep a cayenne pepper shaker on their table for seasoning food.

To make the ingestion of cayenne pepper easier, many people mix it with orange juice. However, taking cayenne pepper in capsules may cause digestive upset if the capsule opens in the stomach. If the tongue has already tasted the cayenne, the stomach will have advanced warning. Some cayenne pepper capsules may contain ginger to help the stomach adjust more easily.

Cayenne Quality

It is important to note that not all cayenne pepper is of the same quality. Generally, health food stores carry higher quality and more potent cayenne pepper than average grocery stores.

Cayenne pepper can have a wide range of heat levels. Some brands have a heat rating of 30,000, which is still quite spicy, while others may have as much as 190,000 heat units. Only individuals who are accustomed to strong spices will be able to tolerate higher amounts.

However, with regular use, your body will adjust to the potency of cayenne pepper. Starting with a small amount and gradually increasing the dose can help your body tolerate larger amounts over time.

Topical Use of Cayenne Pepper

Cayenne pepper is commonly used topically to reduce pain and improve circulation. This is because capsaicin, the active ingredient in cayenne pepper, affects substance P, which relays pain signals in the body.

When a cayenne pepper salve is applied to arthritic joints or painful muscles, it can provide pain relief while also increasing blood flow to the area. This increased circulation can promote healing.

It is important to note that while natural pain relief methods like cayenne pepper salves can be helpful, they should not be used to push the body beyond its limits. Pain is a signal to the body to rest, and ignoring it or masking it can lead to further problems down the line.

In addition to its pain-relieving properties, a topical cayenne salve can relieve shingles pain and help warm up cold hands and feet.

How to Make a Cayenne Salve

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon cayenne pepper powder
• 1/2 cup olive oil
• 1/2 cup castor oil
• 3 tablespoons beeswax

Note: If you don’t have castor oil, use 1 cup of olive oil instead. However, castor oil has pain-relieving properties, so it is recommended to use it if possible. If you want a harder salve, you can use 4 tablespoons of beeswax.

Instructions:

1. Combine the cayenne pepper powder, olive oil, and castor oil in a glass jar.
2. Allow the mixture to sit for 1-2 weeks.
3. Using a sterile cheesecloth, strain out the cayenne pepper powder.
4. In a double boiler, heat the red-colored oil with the beeswax until the wax melts.
5. Pour the mixture into a jar or tin and allow it to cool.

Cayenne Pepper Gargle

Cayenne pepper has been found to have antiviral and antibacterial properties, making it an excellent ingredient for a throat gargle. Although it may be spicy and uncomfortable at first, using a cayenne pepper gargle can reduce pain and fight infections.

To use cayenne pepper as a gargle, mix 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper with 1/4 cup of warm water and gargle several times a day for a few days. However, applying lip balm before gargling is important to avoid burning your lips.

A cayenne pepper gargle can even help fight stubborn infections like strep throat. For a step-by-step guide on using cayenne pepper as a gargle, check out this instructional video from Earth Clinic.

Cayenne Pepper Tooth Powder

Cayenne pepper can fight infection and increase circulation in your mouth. You can make a tooth powder to use instead of toothpaste. It may taste very spicy at first, but your mouth will get accustomed to it over time.

Spicy Tooth Powder:

• 1 Tablespoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper
   

Sprinkle the powder onto your toothbrush and brush your teeth gently as needed.

Cayenne Pepper for Emergencies

Cayenne pepper can be used to stop bleeding from a cut by sprinkling it directly into the wound and applying pressure with a clean cloth or gauze pad. The cayenne pepper will mix with the blood and form a scab, which should not be removed. Allowing the scab to fall off naturally will prevent re-bleeding.

In his book Herbal Home Health Care, herbalist Dr. John Christopher recommends using a teaspoon of cayenne pepper in a cup of hot water in case of a heart attack. Many midwives also use this formula for mothers who experience bleeding during childbirth at home.

Research has found that capsaicin, the heat-producing component in cayenne pepper, can decrease cardiac cell death when applied topically during a heart attack, while further treatment is being pursued. Capsaicin is also found in topical pain relief formulas.

Where to Buy:

Summary

Cayenne pepper is a natural remedy with a range of health benefits. Its active component, capsaicin, has anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and anti-viral properties. Cayenne pepper has been used for centuries in traditional medicine to alleviate pain, improve digestion, and boost immunity.

One of the main benefits of cayenne pepper is its pain-relieving effect. Cayenne pepper is often used topically as a salve to alleviate pain associated with arthritis, sore muscles, and nerve damage. When applied topically, capsaicin causes a sensation of heat and reduces the concentration of Substance P, a chemical that transmits pain signals to the brain. This makes cayenne pepper a useful ingredient in topical pain relief formulas.

In addition to its pain-relieving properties, cayenne pepper has been found to have many other health benefits. For example, it may improve digestion by increasing the production of digestive enzymes and stimulating the digestive tract. Cayenne pepper may also improve cardiovascular health by reducing blood pressure and improving blood flow. Moreover, it may support respiratory health by reducing inflammation in the airways and improving breathing.

Cayenne pepper also has immune-boosting properties due to its high content of vitamin C. Vitamin C is essential for immune function, and it may help to reduce the severity and duration of common illnesses such as colds and flu. Moreover, cayenne pepper may have anti-viral and anti-bacterial properties that make it a useful natural remedy against infections.

Another potential benefit of cayenne pepper is its ability to improve skin health. It may promote wound healing, reduce inflammation, and improve skin infections. Cayenne pepper has also been found to have aphrodisiac properties and may help to improve sexual function.

When using cayenne pepper for medicinal purposes, it is important to choose high-quality cayenne pepper from a reputable source. It is also recommended to start with a small dose and gradually increase it as needed. As with any natural remedy, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional before using cayenne pepper for medicinal purposes, especially if you have any underlying medical conditions or take medications.

In conclusion, cayenne pepper is a versatile natural remedy with numerous potential health benefits. Its pain-relieving, digestive, cardiovascular, respiratory, immune-boosting, and skin health properties make it a valuable addition to any natural medicine cabinet. With proper use and under the guidance of a healthcare professional, cayenne pepper may help to alleviate a range of health issues and improve overall wellness.

Read on to learn the benefits hundreds of Earth Clinic readers have experienced with Cayenne over the past 15 years. Be sure to share your experiences with us!

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