This spice has been used in folk medicine and cooking for over 9,000 years. It allows you to increase the spiciness and bring out the flavor of many dishes, but it is not the taste that makes it so appreciated. Its numerous health-promoting properties make it worth having in the kitchen, it will be useful for winter recipes (and more). Why is it good to have at least a small jar of cayenne pepper on hand?
This pepper is made from cayenne peppers (Capsicum bush), growing on a shrub, originating from Central and South America. Currently, they are grown in subtropical and tropical climates. They form empty, long pods that are red, orange or yellow when ripe. One-year-old peppers are harvested and dried. The pods (together with the seeds) are ground to produce cayenne pepper, which owes its sharpness to a large dose of capsaicin.
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Numerous studies have proven that it can have a beneficial effect on metabolism and help with weight loss. First of all, it helps with digestion by increasing saliva production – it stimulates the salivary glands, which is necessary to start the digestion process. It stimulates the secretion of gastric juices, which improves metabolism. Moreover, improved saliva production prevents bad breath.
The detoxifying properties of spices also help in the weight loss process. Study published in Critical Reviews in Food Science and Nutrition has proven that cayenne pepper helps remove bacteria and toxins from the body. Additionally, it stimulates circulation and regulates blood sugar levels. There were also studies focusing typically on weight-loss-supporting effects. Analysis published in PLOS ONE showed that consuming cayenne pepper for breakfast reduced appetitethanks to which the subjects consumed fewer calories during the day.
Cayenne pepper contains many vitamins, including vitamin A, B6, C, E and K. It also contains potassium, manganese and flavonoids, which provide strong antioxidant properties. A popular method of using pepper for weight loss is to prepare it based on the spice and lemon juice. Add two tablespoons of lemon juice, two tablespoons of maple syrup and a pinch of cayenne pepper to 250 ml of water. You should drink this drink for a maximum of 10 days, approximately 4-6 times a day.
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In addition to supporting weight loss, cayenne pepper relieves migraine pain. Research suggests that because of its spiciness, pepper may stimulate a pain response in another part of the body. Thanks to this, the brain no longer focuses on the headache and focuses on another place. This causes the nerve fibers to deplete the substance responsible for pain and the migraine weakens. Its analgesic properties are also visible when applied directly to the skin (e.g. in the form of creams).
In addition, it stimulates fibrinolytic activity and helps prevent blood clots. Capsaicin is helpful in removing lipid deposits that cause arteries to narrow. Thanks to this, they remain dilated, which allows you to get rid of clots.
Capsaicin may also help with alleviating stomach problemsincluding stomach upset or diarrhea. Numerous studies from the 21st century have also shown that pepper can have a positive effect on ulcers – it stimulates the secretion of mucus, improving blood flow through the gastric mucosa, which helps prevent the formation of ulcers and supports their healing.
Additionally, cayenne pepper supports the immune systemand more specifically, it breaks down the mucus that accompanies flu and colds. Additionally, it contains vitamin C, which is beneficial in the fight against such diseases. In addition to vitamin C, it also provides a large dose of vitamin A; it is necessary to maintain proper vision and skin health. In turn, vitamin E is helpful in slowing down the aging process.
Research conducted at the University of California, Los Angeles School of Medicine showed that cayenne pepper is able to inhibit the growth of cancer cellsespecially in the case of prostate and lung cancer.
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You can add cayenne pepper to a variety of meals for a spicy flavor. It goes perfectly with meat, pasta, eggs and vegetables. At the beginning, it is worth starting with half a teaspoon and gradually increasing the amount. It is also suitable for cleansing drinks, especially those based on vegetables and herbs.
It can be an alternative to some ordinary pepper in many dishes, including: to . Bigos or goulash seasoned with cayenne pepper will taste delicious and will gain more health-promoting ingredients. People who like spicy sauces can feel free to add this spice – for salads, sandwiches or tortillas, whatever you find. This spice is very universal and can be used in many recipes.
Sources: Terazgotuje.pl, draxe.com
