Chillies are good for us
Besides being an awesome spice, chillies are also great for us, offering a variety of remarkable health benefits. They are loaded with vitamins and other compounds that are essential to our well-being and are a true nutritional powerhouse.
One of the key elements that gives the chili its health-giving properties is a substance called capsaicin. This is the compound responsible for the fiery burning
sensation we feel when we eat chillies, but it also provides a multitude of benefits for our body. The level of capsaicin varies greatly from type to type; the intensely hot Scotch bonnet has a lot, while milder varieties like the jalapeño have significantly less. It’s no surprise that the more capsaicin a chili contains, the greater the burning effect we experience.
When we eat chillies (or are unfortunate enough to get them in our eyes), receptors on the tongue and skin send a clear message to the brain that we’re feeling pain. In a fascinating response, the brain instructs the body to produce endorphins. These natural, pain-relieving hormones not only take the pain away but also create a feeling of well-being. As we know, feeling good is a significant part of feeling healthy, making this a considerable bonus from something we enjoy eating so much. 
The Science Behind the Spice: Documented Health Benefits
The benefits of capsaicin go far beyond a simple endorphin rush. Extensive research has documented its positive effects in several key areas of health:
- Weight Management: Capsaicin has been shown to be a powerful aid in weight loss. It increases your metabolic activity—the rate at which your body processes food—which helps to burn off fat and calories more efficiently. This is why you’ll find capsaicin as a key ingredient in many slimming aids.
- Pain Relief: Capsaicin works as a natural painkiller by slowing down the action of a substance that transmits pain signals to the brain. Studies have demonstrated its effectiveness in the treatment of headaches, and it is also a widely recognized topical treatment for the pain associated with conditions like osteoarthritis.
- Anti-Inflammatory Properties: This remarkable compound helps to slow down the biological processes that cause inflammation in the body, which can be beneficial for those suffering from inflammatory conditions.
- Clearing Congestion: Beyond its heat, capsaicin is a natural decongestant. It not only has anti-bacterial properties but also stimulates the production of substances that will help clear a blocked nose, providing relief during colds or allergies.
The above are only a handful of the health benefits linked to capsaicin. It has also shown promising use in cancer treatment, promoting a healthy heart, and soothing the symptoms of some stomach diseases.