The Spice That Can Benefit Your Heart Health: Cayenne Pepper
Cayenne pepper has been used for medicinal purposes for thousands of years for its potent health benefits. It is known for its active ingredient, capsaicin, which is responsible for its fiery flavor and its health-promoting properties. Capsaicin has been proven to be a powerful anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant, which can aid in the prevention and treatment of heart disease.
One of the essential ways that cayenne pepper can benefit your heart is by lowering blood pressure. High blood pressure can increase the risk of heart disease, stroke, and other life-threatening conditions. A study conducted in 2016 reveals that capsaicin can reduce blood pressure by relaxing the blood vessels’ walls, allowing for better blood flow.
Cayenne pepper is also known to lower cholesterol levels. High levels of LDL (Low-density lipoprotein) cholesterol can lead to heart disease. Adding cayenne pepper to your diet can help reduce LDL levels due to its active ingredient, capsaicin. Capsaicin has been proven to reduce the accumulation of cholesterol in the liver, preventing it from entering the bloodstream.
Inflammation is another major contributor to heart disease. Cayenne pepper has anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce inflammation in the blood vessels, reducing the risk of heart disease. Inflammation can damage the lining of the blood vessels and cause plaque to build-up, which can lead to a higher risk of heart disease.
Remedies that utilize cayenne pepper for heart health are also available. One such remedy is cayenne pepper tea. To create this tea, add a teaspoon of cayenne pepper to boiling water with honey and lemon to taste. Drinking this tea regularly can help lower blood pressure, reduce inflammation, and lower cholesterol levels. Cayenne pepper capsules are also available in the marketplace as an easy and convenient way to get your daily dose of cayenne pepper.
Cayenne pepper has been proven to have a significant impact on heart health, reducing the risk of heart disease, reducing inflammation, lowering blood pressure, and LDL cholesterol levels. Adding cayenne pepper to your diet or incorporating natural remedies utilizing cayenne pepper can potentially benefit your heart health. However, if you are taking medications, or have a medical condition, it is always advisable to consult with your healthcare provider before consuming cayenne pepper or any other natural remedy.
References:
Cayenne Pepper: Medicinal Uses, Benefits, and Side Effects.” Healthline, 2 Apr. 2019, www.healthline.com/nutrition/cayenne-pepper-benefits.
“Cayenne Pepper: A Spicy Gift with Health Benefits.” National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health, 15 Aug. 2019, www.nccih.nih.gov/health/cayenne-pepper.
The Author:
Pioneerthinking.com – Ingredients for a Simple Life.
Photo. Steve Buissinne
