Capsaicin is the active substance in chili peppers that gives it a spicy and hot taste. This substance is often used to reduce pain because of its anti-pain properties. In addition to reducing pain, capsaicin also has several other health benefits. What are the benefits? Come on, see the following reviews.
Capsaicin is naturally found in chili seeds, such as cayenne pepper, red chili, jalapeno, and peppers. Capsaicin extract is widely used as an additive or food additive to preserve food or give a spicy taste to food.
In addition, capsaicin is also widely used as a supplement or drug to treat certain health problems.
Various Benefits of Capsaicin for Health
Several studies have proven that capsaicin has anti-pain, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and even anti-cancer effects. Because it has various effects, capsaicin is widely used in the health sector to maintain health and even to treat several conditions, such as:
1. Relieves pain
The clinically proven efficacy of capsaicin is as an anti-pain medication. The anti-pain properties of capsaicin are effective in helping relieve muscle pain, joint pain in arthritis sufferers, nerve pain in sufferers fibromyalgia and diabetic neuropathy, and migraine.
Capsaicin works by inhibiting the transmission of pain signals or stimulation to nerves, so that the sensation of pain that is felt is reduced.
2. Overcoming itching on the skin
Capsaicin is known to have an anti-inflammatory effect and gives a hot or spicy sensation. This effect makes capsaicin useful for reducing inflammation and relieving itching of the skin as well as relieving complaints related to skin problems, such as psoriasis and eczema.
Studies in psoriasis patients treated with capsaicin cream showed a significant improvement in psoriasis symptoms, such as crusty skin, itching, and redness.
However, in some cases, capsaicin can cause skin irritation and redness of the skin, so not all skin problems are suitable to be treated with capsaicin. If you have an unwanted reaction on your skin after using a cream containing capsaicin, you should consult a dermatologist.
3. Relieves colds
When you have a cold, have you ever felt your breath become more? plong after eating something spicy? That's because of the effects of capsaicin. This substance can reduce swelling in the nose and stimulate it to secrete mucus, so that colds subside.
In addition, capsaicin can also strengthen the immune system. Good effect to relieve colds caused by flu.
4. Increase metabolism and lose weight
Capsaicin is known to increase the body's metabolism. A number of studies show that capsaicin can increase the body's metabolism, resulting in more fat burning. As a result, weight is reduced.
Researchers have also found that capsaicin can reduce cravings and make us feel fuller for longer. However, the benefits of capsaicin for weight loss will only be effective if it is accompanied by a healthy lifestyle and regular exercise.
5. Healthy heart
Dyslipidemia is a condition in which the level of fat or cholesterol in the blood increases. This is at risk of causing blockage of blood vessels which can lead to heart disease and stroke.
According to several studies, capsaicin in chili is known to reduce cholesterol, lower blood pressure, and has an anticoagulant effect (prevents blood clots).
nowTherefore, capsaicin can be used to reduce the risk of heart disease, hypertension, and stroke, by lowering bad LDL cholesterol levels while increasing HDL good cholesterol levels in the body.
6. Control blood sugar
According to a number of studies, capsaicin is able to keep blood sugar levels from soaring high by stimulating insulin production and increasing insulin performance. This effect is good for preventing and helping to control diabetes.
However, considering that this research is limited to animals, its effectiveness on humans still needs to be investigated further.
7. Lowers the risk of cancer
Several studies show that capsaicin can prevent and slow the growth of cancer cells, so it is thought to be good for preventing cancer.
However, it is important to note that these findings are also based solely on studies in laboratory animals. The effect on humans may be different and still needs to be investigated further.
To get the benefits of capsaicin, you can add chili, paprika, or pepper to taste in cooking. However, don't consume it in excess, because too much capsaicin can cause stomach pain and diarrhea.
You can also use a variety of over-the-counter capsaicin products, such as creams, gels, patches, medications, or supplements. But remember, its use must be in accordance with the instructions for use or advice from a doctor.