MEDICINAL USES OF CAYENNE PEPPERS
In most parts of the world today, cayenne peppers are regarded as important medicinal herbs. This is because for thousands of years, they’ve been used as a remedy for different kinds of health complications. Asides being great ingredients for cooking spicy meals, these peppers also contain lots of medicinal properties.
Origin Of Cayenne Peppers
Cayenne peppers belong to the family of chili peppers. They were first grown in Central and South America, but later introduced to Europe in the 15th century by Christopher Columbus.
Nutritional Profile Of Cayenne Peppers
Cayenne pepper has a remarkable nutrition profile. Among its list of important nutrients are a variety of antioxidants that offer lots of health benefits. A tablespoon (5 grams) of cayenne pepper is made up of 17 calories, 1 gram of fat, 3 grams of carbohydrates, 1.4 grams of fibre, 0.6 grams of protein, 44% of the RDI of Vitamin A, 8% of the RDI of Vitamin E, 7% of the RDI of Vitamin C, 6% of the RDI of Vitamin B6, 5% of the RDI of Vitamin K, 5% of the RDI of manganese, 3% of the RDI of potassium, and 3% of the RDI of Riboflavin.
Asides the aforementioned nutrients, another important property of cayenne peppers is capsaicin; it gives them their curative ability and spicy taste. Here are 3 medicinal uses of Cayenne peppers.
- May Help To Reduce Blood Pressure
Millions of people around the world are suffering from high blood pressure. As a matter of fact, over 40% of adults who are above 25 have high blood pressure. Recent studies carried out on animals have revealed that the capsaicin in cayenne peppers may lower high blood pressure. A particular study conducted on pigs revealed that capsaicin helped in the relaxation of the animals’ blood vessels, leading to lower blood pressure.
While the above findings are based on animals, extensive research is still being carried out to discover the best recommendation for humans.
- Helps In Pain Relief
The active ingredient in Cayenne peppers, capsaicin, can act as a pain reliever when applied to the skin in a cream. Here’s how it works. When capsaicin is applied to the affected area of the body, it lowers the amount of substance P, a neuropeptide (created in the body) that travels to the brain to signal pain. As capsaicin decreases the production of substance P, pain signals cease from travelling to the brain and the feelings of pains reduce.
The capsaicin in cayenne peppers are usually sold as creams and can be used to treat joint and muscle pain, lower back pain, after-surgery pain and pains from nerve conditions like shingles. Please do not apply the cream to an open wound or broken skin.
- May Help To Improve Psoriasis Condition
A condition in which your body begins to attack itself is known as autoimmune disease. Psoriasis is a popular type of autoimmune disease and some of its symptoms include patches of red, itchy and scaly skin.
Presently, psoriasis does not have a cure. Nonetheless, capsaicin creams can help soothe the itching on the skin and improve the appearance of the psoriasis-affected areas. Recent studies have revealed that psoriasis patients treated with capsaicin cream experienced a notable reduction in scaling, redness and patchiness than patients who were treated with a placebo cream.
Conclusion
The active ingredient in cayenne pepper, capsaicin, makes it a great medicinal herb. If you’re concerned that cayenne peppers may affect your current medication, endeavour to consult your doctor.
NOTE: We highly recommend that before using any herbal medications you should consult your health care provider or medical doctor for professional advice.
Disclaimer: All herbs and spices listed on http://islandherbsandspices.com/ or sold for medical and household use only, again we advice that before using any HERBS for medical purposes, please consult your physician.
