Cayenne Pepper Tea

What is cayenne pepper tea

A tasty spice used in several preparations, cayenne pepper, is also a popular choice for preparing a warm cup of tea for its positive effects on health. The peppery-flavored decoction owes its therapeutic properties to several nutritional ingredients present in the herb.

History and origin

Cayenne peppers were introduced to Southeastern Asia after the discovery of America. Brigham Young, the successor of Mormon Prophet Joseph Smith first coined the idea of using the spice powder as an herbal beverage instead of regular tea for improvement of overall health.

Cayenne pepper tea health benefits: What is it good for

For migraine headaches

Due to the spicy flavor of the tea, it is believed to trigger a sudden pain in some other region of the body, causing the brain to divert attention from the present discomfort. Subsequently, the levels of substance P, a chemical released by the nerve fibers that plays a role in the transmission of pain signals to the central nervous system, is lowered, and the perception of pain is minimized, thereby providing relief from the headaches.

Effects on digestion

As cayenne pepper can improve the flow of digestive enzymes while also increasing the saliva production, regular intake of its herbal decoction after meals can facilitate digestion and ease bowel movements, reducing flatulence as well.

Detoxifying properties

Apart from having a positive impact on the lymphatic and digestive rhythm, the healthy condiment exhibits the function of a circulatory stimulant that aids in boosting circulation, while also inducing sweating for eliminating the toxic wastes from the body. For this reason, drinking the herbal tea mixed with lemon juice and honey in the morning works as a good detoxification remedy.

For cancer prevention

According to some research conducted on human lung cancer cells, capsaicin can inhibit the growth of tumors. Being one of the active ingredients of cayenne pepper, it could be a potential aid for lowering the risk of lung cancer in smokers, and additionally help in preventing liver cancer.

Weight management

It can aid in suppressing the appetite since a recent study has shown the ability of cayenne pepper to burn excess calories by improving metabolism, and maintaining the daily calorie intake.

Cardiac health

Besides helping in regulating the blood pressure and cholesterol levels, its consumption can be beneficial for preventing atherosclerosis due to the presence of anticoagulant properties, lessening the risk of formation of blood clots, one of the common causes of heart attack and stroke.

Good for cold and flu

A warm cup of the tea could be effective in clearing the mucus, relieving congestion, thus helping in getting rid of the symptoms of cold and flu.

In addition to having antifungal and antibacterial properties, it acts as an anti-irritant providing relief from diarrhea and an upset stomach as well as a cough, sore throat, and toothache when used for gargling. Also being an anti-allergen, it may assist in reducing redness and discomfort that occurs in certain degenerative disorders.

How to make cayenne pepper tea

• Add 1 tablespoon of cayenne pepper powder to a cup.
• Pour boiling water into it and stir well.
• Add lemon juice, honey, or sugar. (optional)
• Allow the tea to cool for about 1 to 2 minutes before drinking.

You can prepare the tea with green tea leaves for enjoying a warm cup of cayenne pepper green tea.

Safety and Precautions

Side effects

It is advisable to drink the tea in limited amounts since an overdose could lead to abdominal distress and burning sensation during bowel movements, and also irritation in the mouth and throat. Discontinue its use if you have an allergic reaction or any adverse effects like yellowing of the eyes, bleeding, or dark urine.

During pregnancy

Although the topical use of cayenne pepper is considered to be safe for pregnant women, there is no information available regarding the consumption of the herbal infusion. Thus, it would be better to avoid the tea during pregnancy and also while breastfeeding.

Where to buy

Since the tea is prepared with cayenne pepper powder, it is not readily available as organic tea packets in herbal tea shops though its blended with other teas that can be purchased from any online store.