Cayenne pepper is one of the spices people know today. Also called cow-horn pepper, bird pepper, red hot chili pepper, and Guinea spice, it is usually used in cooking various spicy dishes like Sichuan and Korean, among others. Also, cayenne has multiple health benefits.
General Nutrients
Cayenne is rich in vitamins and minerals. According to Medical News Today, cayenne contains vitamins B and C. Vitamin B is vital for the function of the nervous system, such as learning, thinking, sensation, and memory. On the other hand, vitamin C is known for its ability to fight infection and illness and it also promotes the function of the substance collagen, which acts as cement and binds loosely connected cells and tissues. Just like other vitamins like vitamins A and E, vitamin C also acts as an antioxidant and helps the body get rid of unwanted and toxic substances.
In terms of minerals, cayenne contains manganese, zinc, potassium, magnesium, and calcium. Manganese helps in the growth and development of cells and tissues and it also promotes cellular metabolism. Calcium plays a role in promoting bone health and cardiovascular function while magnesium is essential for neuromuscular health. Zinc enhances wound healing and digestive health while potassium aids in cardiovascular health. It counters the fluid retention action of sodium and it also prevents hypertension and reduces cardiac overload by relaxing the muscles of the heart and the blood vessels.
Cayenne and Migraine
Cayenne pepper can relieve migraine pain. According to Dr. Axe’s website, cayenne’s spice properties are capable of triggering pain response to a different body part. As a result, the brain’s reception goes to that site and will defocus pain in the other body part. As per the publication, the first initial reaction from the cayenne pepper is followed by reduced levels of the pain chemical called substance P; thus, pain sensation is reduced. It is added that this way, the body will be able to trick itself to feel pain in another body part, for the brain to remove its focus on the brain.
Cayanne and Digestion
Along with zinc, cayenne also has other features that help facilitate healthy digestive process. According to Global Healing Center, the spice also stimulates the digestive tract and improves enzyme production and gastric juice flow. Also it helps relieve intestinal gas while stimulating intestinal peristaltic motion, assimilation, and elimination.
Sample Recipe
As a spice, cayenne can be added to different meal recipes, such as the Blackened Salmon Fillets. According to All Recipes, the ingredients include two tablespoons of ground paprika, a tablespoon of ground cayenne pepper, a tablespoon of onion powder, two teaspoons salt, half teaspoon of ground white pepper, half teaspoon of ground black pepper, one-fourth teaspoon dried thyme, one-fourth teaspoon dried basil, one-fourth teaspoon dried oregano, four salmon fillets (skin, bones removed), and half cup unsalted butter (melted).
To prepare, as per the publication, the cayenne pepper, paprika, onion powder, white pepper, salt, black pepper, basil, thyme, and oregano are mixed in a small bowl. Next, the salmon fillets are brushed on both sides with one-fourth cup of butter. Then, the other side of the fillet is drizzled with the remaining butter and it is cooked until it becomes dark in color and easily flakes with a fork.
Cayenne is good for the health and its inclusion to various meal recipes helps promote a person’s health and wellness.
