Cayenne peppers have a moderately hot, spicy flavour thanks to a compound called capsaicin. Hot peppers like cayenne peppers may offer some health benefits, but research is limited on the potential health benefits related to cayenne pepper consumption specifically.
Here are 6 potential health benefits of cayenne pepper:
1. Chili peppers like cayenne peppers are high in a number of nutrients, including vitamin C and provitamin A.
2. A compound called capsaicin in cayenne peppers may offer some health benefits. However, available studies focus on high-dose oral capsaicin supplements and topical applications, not the amounts found in normal serving sizes of hot peppers. Research also suggests that capsaicin has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
3. In addition to capsaicin, cayenne peppers contain other beneficial compounds, including carotenoids and flavonoids, which have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
4. Some studies have linked regular hot pepper consumption to a lower risk of all-cause and heart-disease-related mortality.
5. Using cayenne pepper may help cut down on your use of added salt, which could benefit health.
6. You can use cayenne pepper in many recipes. Although it’s safe when you consume it in normal amounts, high-dose cayenne pepper supplements have been associated with dangerous side effects in some people.