8 Advantages and Disadvantages of Cayenne Pepper

Cayenne pepper is not only used for culinary purposes, but also for its many health benefits. Many countries in Asia have a history of using it therapeutically and for detoxification.

But pepper in general has fat-burning content, which is why it is often considered a fat-burning food, and an ideal ingredient for weight loss recipes. This means cayenne has similar benefits and more. But too much of it, however, can have side effects.

List of Advantages of Cayenne Pepper

1. Aids in digestion
The main benefit of cayenne pepper is its positive effects on the digestive system. It stimulates the salivary glands to produce saliva, and stimulates the flow of enzyme production, both of which are needed in the digestive process. Cayenne pepper also stimulates gastric juices that your body needs to metabolize toxins and food.

2. Prevents irritation
Cayenne pepper has anti-irritant properties that help ease upset stomach, ulcer, heartburn and cough. Other cultures even use it to treat diarrhea, tonsillitis, sore throat, and other elements.

3. Supports weight loss
As previously mentioned, cayenne pepper works as a metabolic booster, effectively burning fat faster. It increases body temperature, and boosts metabolism. When eaten for breakfast, it also curbs appetite, so people eat less calories during the day.

4. Aids in detoxification
Have you ever heard of the cayenne pepper cleanse? One of the reasons that this particular type of pepper is used for detoxification is because of its ability to eliminate acidity and stimulate circulation that can help in regulating blood sugar. When this happens, the digestive system will be able to remove bacteria and toxins in the body. And because it works as a metabolic booster, expect an increase in metabolism too.

5. Helps ease migraine pain
Who knew that migraine relief can be as simple as diverting the brain’s attention to a different kind of pain? Because cayenne pepper can stimulate pain in a different part of the body, it has been used to help lessen pain in the head. By the time the brain reverts back to your head, the substance P or pain chemical in the nerve fibers have already been depleted, effectively reducing the sensation of pain brought on by a migraine.

List of Disadvantages of Cayenne Pepper

1. Leads to gastric ulcers
While cayenne pepper can help ease ulcers, excessive amounts of it can have the opposite effect. This is why people with ulcers are advised to limit consumption. The irritant and acid-secreting nature of cayenne pepper can also lead to heartburn when taken in excess. Clearly, too much of anything is bad.

2. Increases possibility of stomach cancer
Too much cayenne can lead to inflammation of the stomach and intestinal linings. Although there is no conclusive evidence that this can result in cancer, excessive consumption must still be avoided, especially for people that have pre-existing digestive problems, or are suffering inflammation of the digestive tract.

3. Pregnancy side effects
When taken as a supplement while pregnant, cayenne pepper can lead to heartburn or cause complications with digestion. An existing acid reflux can worsen as well. Breastfeeding mothers are also advised against taking cayenne pepper supplements, as these can have an effect on the infant.