I’m taking a couple of weeks out of my A-Z Herbs to do this two-part piece on Capsicum (Capsaicin) as it is of keen interest to me and many of my friends who grow these good boys.
Capsicum is the genus that all chili and bell peppers fall under, and managing Metabolic Syndrome is merely one potential health benefit derived from Capsicum, along with the ability to manage pain.
The common ingredient in many varieties of the chili peppers is “Capsaicin,” which is responsible for the pungency or “hot” flavor along with “anti-oxidant” and “anti-inflammatory” properties. Many studies have proved that Capsicum (along with Capsaicin) helps to reduce pain and lower the risk of Metabolic Syndrome and cancer. Research has shown that it fights bacterial infections that have been known to be antibiotic resistant strains!
The genus or family of Capsicum is formerly known as Solanaceae, which comprises ALL chili and bell pepper varieties, ranging from sweet peppers to very spicy varieties. Black pepper is NOT in this family. The name Capsicum was derived from the Greek word, Kapto, which translates into “bite.” This refers to the hot burning sensation in the mouth that most chilies produce. The Capsicum genus includes many species, but the red peppers are the most common. Bell peppers aren’t hot peppers, but other peppers (in this group) are.
Examples of chili peppers in this group will include cayenne, jalapeño and poblano. A second group of peppers is known as Capsicum Chinese which is inclusive of habanero, datil and scotch bonnet. A third group, Capsicum frutescens is comprised of tabasco peppers.
A bit about the nutritional info: Chili Peppers are phenomenal sources of plant compounds known as “photochemicals.” These are purported to protect against cancer and heart disease. Capsaicin is one of the known phytochemicals along with others such as anthocyanins, flavonoids, phenolic acids, carotenoids such as lutein, lycopene and zeaxanthin. The vitamins derived from Capsicum include all vitamin Bs, Vitamin E, Vitamin C, fiber and minerals such as iron, calcium, copper, manganese and molybdenum. The amino acids contained therein would be tryptophan, phenylamine and lysine (which is used for Herpes outbreaks).
Conditions that Capsaicin seems to positively affect (treat) shown by a 2018 study would be Metabolic Syndrome. In this condition a person will have several risk factors for cardiovascular issues such as diabetes, out of whack cholesterol levels, high blood pressure and obesity. The research study, both in animals and humans, found the following:
Capsaicin has several properties that have an anti-diabetic effect. It reduces insulin resistance (which makes it easier for blood glucose to permeate cells from the bloodstream), AND Capsaicin also seems to prevent obesity which is a huge risk factor for diabetes.
Also, a number of studies have supported that Capsaicin can decrease total cholesterol, triglycerides and LDLs (bad cholesterol). They also seem to increase the HDLs or “good” cholesterol. Capsaicin also helps to control high blood pressure through several benefits which include releasing substances that widen vessels suppressing an enzyme that constricts vessels and stimulating increased urination which reduces BP by reducing excess fluid.
Several studies support that Capsaicin promotes weight loss by increasing appetite satisfaction and preventing the development of fat cells.
In a 2020 review of Capsaicin for pain relieving effects (topical or injection), the FDA has approved a topical medication containing Capsaicin for the treatment of nerve-related pain from Herpes (Shingles). European drug oversight agencies have approved the compound for other nerve-related pain from Herpes. Studies on the use of Capsaicin for treating Morton’s Neuroma are promising. This is a painful condition affecting feet. Also, Capsaicin can be delivered as an injection into a joint for arthritis. A drawback of topical or injectable Capsaicin treatment involves immediate burning that can last minutes or hours, but the offset of months of relief can be a positive trade!
Next week we will continue part 2 of this article.
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