Cayenne Peppers are a type of chili pepper. They belong to the nightshade family of flowering plants and are closely related to bell peppers and jalapeños.

These peppers boast an impressive nutrition profile, which includes a variety of antioxidants that are beneficial for your health.

Capsaicin, the active ingredient in Cayenne Peppers, is what gives them their medicinal properties.

It also gives them their hot taste. In fact, how hot a Cayenne Pepper is depends on its capsaicin content. The more capsaicin it contains, the hotter it is.

Here are 8 science-backed benefits of Cayenne Pepper.

1. May Boost Your Metabolism

The capsaicin in Cayenne Peppers may help boost your metabolism. However, its effect is small and you may build up a tolerance.

The capsaicin in Cayenne Peppers may help reduce your hunger, helping you eat less throughout the day.

3. May Lower Blood Pressure

Capsaicin has appeared to reduce blood pressure in animal studies. Human studies are needed before making a recommendation.

Cayenne Peppers may help improve your digestive health and reduce your risk of stomach ulcers.

• Joint and muscle pain
• Lower back pain
• Pain after surgery
• Pain from nerve conditions like shingles

6. May Improve Psoriasis

Capsaicin may help improve symptoms of psoriasis by helping reduce the amount of substance P produced by your body.

7. May Reduce Cancer Risk

Capsaicin has shown promise in cancer research, although human studies are needed before any conclusions can be made.

Points to look out for:

If you are taking medications for high blood pressure, such as ACE inhibitors, check with your doctor before trying capsaicin cream, as it may cause coughing.

Also, if you take a blood thinner like warfarin, check with your doctor before trying Cayenne Peppers since they may increase your risk of bleeding.