Some natural medicine practitioners regard cayenne pepper (capsicum) as nature’s most potent medicinal herb. Cayenne is best known as a cardiac stimulant, and according to some records, it has saved the lives of heart attack patients. Cayenne is a rich source of vitamins A, C, and B-complex, and contains high concentrations of calcium and potassium, which may be responsible for its stimulating effect on the heart.
Cayenne’s health benefits are not limited to the heart and circulatory system, however. Here are at least ten ways cayenne enhances overall health.
The Top Health Benefits of Cayenne Pepper
Cayenne is unequalled for heart health. The herb is unique among heart stimulants in that it boosts circulation and increases heart action while actually lowering blood pressure. Heart patients treated with cayenne report less fatigue, along with increased stamina and vigor. Unlike other heart stimulants, cayenne does not cause palpitations or other forms of hyperactivity.
Cayenne soothes digestive tissues. Cayenne has a remarkable abilty to help the body create hydrochloric acid, which is essential for proper digestion and assimilation of proteins. Cayenne also assists in rebuilding damaged tissues in the stomach, and stimulates elimination by increasing bowel function.
Cayenne has been known to arrest bleeding in internal hemorrhages. Taken internally, cayenne pepper can arrest the bleeding of hemorrhages in the lungs, stomach, uterus and nose. This effect is due to cayenne’s effect on circulation, which speeds blood clotting.
Cayenne provides a remedy for circulatory ailments. Capsaicin and other active agents found in Cayenne increase both body temperature and blood circulation, providing relief for those suffering from circulatory disorders. Cayenne is also a natural blood thinner.
Cayenne can be used externally for arthritis and rheumatic pain. Capsicum, cayenne’s active ingredient, is well-established as a pain reliever. Capsicum is used in many topical treatments for pain relief. It is believed to act by depleting neurotransmitters at the site of the pain sensation.
More Heath Effects of Cayenne Pepper
Cayenne is a bioavailability agent. Because of its capacity to boost circulation and stimulate organ secretion, capsicum makes the absorption of nutrients and pharmaceuticals more complete and efficient within the body. Its action ensures the rapid and even distribution of these substances to the body’s critical systems.
Cayenne may help fight certain types of cancer. Recent research has explored capsicum’s effectiveness in fighting pancreatic cancer. Capsicum was shown to increase rates of apoptosis, or programmed cell death, in patients with this form of cancer.
Cayenne helps to relieve the pain of cluster headaches. Capsicum’s ability to deplete neurotransmitters makes it an effective treatment for cluster headaches. A drop of cayenne pepper oil inserted into the nostril has been shown to relieve these troublesome headaches.
Cayenne helps to relieve psoriasis and other skin disorders. A clinical trial studying almost 200 patients showed that capsaicin relieved the itching of psoriasis, and improved the overall condition of psoriasis in a majority of the patients studied.
Cayenne relieves acid reflux and gas. Because of its therapeutic effect on the digestive system, cayenne is an effective remedy for stomach cramps, acidity, acid reflux and gas.
As more information is gleaned from research into cayenne’s potency, this list of uses is sure to grow longer. In the meantime, those of us who enjoy the spice of cayenne in our food will also enjoy knowing that red spicy kick is providing a boost to our overall health.
Source:
A Reference Guide to Medicinal Plants: Herbal Medicine Past and Present
Lucy Tashman - As a writer, I draw on my background in environmental studies, natural history, botany, and herbal medicine, combined with a lifelong ...
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