This week’s wonder plant has Mexican origins and is highly appreciated in the international cuisine. The chili peppers are the fruit of the plants in the Capsicum genus, and they are known for the hot, spicy taste they have. You can consume it fresh or dried and powdered. The leaves are also edible, and are not as hot as the pepper.
Besides the culinary uses it’s renowned for, the chili pepper has been used for hundreds of years as basis for different naturopathic remedies. Its most potent compound is capsaicin, which is a natural pain killer and fights against inflammation. The amount of capsaicin is directly proportional to the peppers’ spiciness, so the hotter a chili is, the more effective the remedy.
The studies that have been conducted so far reveal that they also help decrease the levels of blood fats (cholesterol and triglycerides), while dissolving the blood cloths that get formed inside the vessels.
If you endure the spicy taste, it is a great remedy that alleviates flu symptoms, clearing the mucus in the respiratory tract and in the sinuses. It also contains high amounts of beta-carotene, which reduces inflammation during colds.
When it comes to selecting and storing the fruits, always look for the ones that have firm skin and that look fresh. They shouldn’t have any cracks near the stem, either. The best peppers you can choose are those vividly colored, as most likely those that have lost their color have also lost a good amount of the capsaicin contained.
You can consume it daily, either fresh or as spice on your meals. If you worry it’s too much for your stomach to handle, then slightly increase the amounts. Start with consuming it two or three times a week, and work your way up until you eat it once a day.
Contrary to the popular belief, chili doesn’t contribute to stomach ulcers, but prevents them. They kill the harmful bacteria that you potentially ingested, and stimulate the stomach tissue to release protective juices. If you believe it’s too much of a risk to take, and especially if you don’t usually eat spicy foods, don’t make major changes all of a sudden. Gradually increase your intake at the speed you feel comfortable to do so.
Do you eat a lot of chilli peppers? What are yor thoughts about this?