Written By Miranda Regalado
This week, we’re heating things up with a discussion on Capsaicin, the chemical responsible for the spiciness of peppers. Cayenne Pepper famous for being used both in Cajun and Creole cuisine, and pepper sprays, it was already used for thousands of years in Native American cultures, in Asia, and southeastern Europe. Its usages expand wide from helping stomach, and circulatory problems, arthritis, and muscle pain.
Cayenne grows in subtropical and tropical climates. Its fruits, which are hollow and elongated, range in color from red to orange or yellow. These peppers, relatives of sweet bell peppers, jalapeños, and the fiery ghost pepper, owe their heat to Capsaicin. They’re also rich in vitamin A and C, flavonoids, and carotenoids, making them powerful antioxidants.
Discussing Capsaicin’s benefits, it’s crucial to note its role in reducing “Substance P,” a chemical messenger of pain and discomfort to the brain. With less Substance P, there’s less pain. The FDA has approved topical Capsaicin treatments for certain nerve pain, and its potential in relieving arthritis pain through injections is promising. Applied topically, Cayenne pepper also reduces inflammation and itchiness, beneficial for psoriasis treatment. Caution is advised to avoid eye contact and not use it in conjunction with hot showers.
Eating Cayenne not only delights spicy food lovers but also offers additional benefits. Contrary to causing heartburn, it actually improves digestion by stimulating stomach fluid production. Some studies suggest it may suppress appetite and promote weight loss, though findings are inconclusive. Remarkably, it benefits the circulatory system by reducing high blood pressure and clearing atherosclerosis, thereby preventing heart-related issues.
In my home, we relish the spicy kick of cayenne in foods and have even tried the “viral TikTok hack” for liver cleansing. This involves mixing ½ a lemon, 1 tablespoon of olive oil, and 1/8 teaspoon (0.6g) of cayenne pepper, consumed 15-20 minutes before breakfast for 10 days. The science suggests olive oil acts as a hepato-protector, influencing lipid metabolism and easing fatty liver symptoms. Lemon, rich in vitamin C and antioxidants, boosts the immune system and protects the liver from oxidative damage. Cayenne pepper’s Capsaicin aids metabolic processes with its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. However, always consult a health practitioner before trying any natural remedies, as they may interact with medications.
Reflecting on nature, we have always been surrounded by powerful ingredients that enhance our bodies and health, which we often overlook in our fast-passed and quick-fix lifestyle, we forgot about them and their benefits. It’s essential to turn our eyes back to mother nature and be grateful of these elements and integrating them into our daily lives.
