Were you aware of the fact that cayenne pepper is one of the healthiest spices for your body? And it is not just because the heat clears out your sinuses. Although this is a pretty good perk. Global Healing Center explains that for centuries, indigenous people of the Americas and China have used cayenne pepper for medicinal purposes. Some of the afflictions cayenne pepper is known to help include tonsillitis and gout. 

The main reason cayenne pepper is so good for you is because it contains a compound called capsicum. According to Organic Facts, capsicum has properties that both prevent and treat a host of ailments. It is an ancient spice that is found not only in cayenne, but also in chili peppers and paprika. As a general rule, the spicier the pepper, the more capsicum. So go ahead. Bring on the spice challenge!

1. Anti-inflammatory. The antioxidant properties in cayenne pepper make it a powerful antidote against the painful inflammation that comes with arthritis and psoriasis, says Livestrong. People suffering from these disorders can look for topical creams containing cayenne pepper or capsicum. They can also get in the habit of adding a dash of cayenne to their morning eggs. 

2. Treat diarrhea. Health 911 explains cayenne, in combination with cinnamon, can help tighten bowels. To treat diarrhea, make a tea from 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon and 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper. Boil the spices in 2 cups boiling water and let the tea seep for 20 minutes. Drink 1/4 cup every 30 minutes. 

3. Prevent diabetes. Studies have shown that regularly ingesting cayenne pepper can actually curb the amount of insulin needed to lower blood sugar after a meal. Capsicum has also been found to stabilize blood sugar and possibly even decrease insulin release, says Diabetic Seniors. If you suffer from diabetes, snack on these baked chickpeas. 

4. Pain relief. Dr. Mercola says capsicum is already found in topical creams used to quell the pain of shingles, osteoarthritis, psoriasis, and neuropathy. It works because capsicum depletes the brain of the chemical responsible for signaling pain. In addition to using creams and patches that contain capsicum, it may be helpful to regularly consume cayenne. Try it in a tasty curry, like this super quick and easy recipe from Food.com. 

5. Boost immune system. Cayenne pepper is a rich source of vitamin C, says Organic Facts. Vitamin C plays a vital role in the immune system. It also repairs damaged brain cells and reduces the risk of asthma in kids. This is why you should replace your kids chips with slices of red bell pepper. 

6. Reduce signs of aging. Style Craze knows a thing or two about slowing down the aging process. They report that cayenne pepper can give your hair shine and volume. It can also increase blood flow to the skin, giving you that healthy glow you've always wanted. This is because cayenne is rich in vitamins C and E, and is full of antioxidants that work wonders on your skin. 

7. Reduce risk of cancer. Cayenne, along with oregano, garlic, and turmeric, are the most potent spices in the fight against cancer, says Chris Beat Cancer. The website says that capsicum kills cancer cells and is delicious in vegetable juices. 

8. Detox. Cayenne first got its star treatment as an essential ingredient in the Master Cleanse that requires its participants drink a concoction made from water, lemon juice, maple syrup, and cayenne pepper. But according to Dr. Axe, cayenne really does have some pretty strong detox properties. These include improved circulation, stronger metabolism, and an improved digestive system to better remove bacteria and other toxins from the body. 

With all this evidence, there's no doubt you should add more cayenne to your diet. Start with a spicy vegetable juice in the morning, snack on bell peppers dipped in cayenne-spiked hummus in the afternoon, and enjoy a hot curry at night. 

What has cayenne pepper done for you? Tell us and SHARE this article on social media! 

RESOURCES GLOBAL HEALING CENTER, ORGANIC FACTS, LIVESTRONG, HEALTH 911, DIABETIC SENIORS, BBC FOOD, FOOD.COM, STYLE CRAZE, CHRIS BEAT CANCER, AND DR. AXE

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