6 Health Benefits of Red Chilli Powder

It is impossible to imagine Indian cuisine without red chilies. Whether in the powder form or the whole spice, the entire country uses it in some form or the other. There are many different kinds of red chilies available throughout the country, each with its own unique taste and form. Red chilies are also a part of many spice blends, condiments, and sauces. The fiery hot taste and spicy kick that it renders to dishes are only one of the many benefits of red chili powder.

While it is rarely discussed, there are many health benefits of having red chilies as a part of our daily food. Beyond adding taste, our dishes get healthier with every pinch of this versatile red spice. The primary bioactive plant compound in red chilies, known as capsaicin, is responsible for the taste and health benefits of red chilies. Higher the amount of capsaicin in the spice, the hotter it tastes and the more benefits it adds to your food.

Chili powder is the dried, pulverized fruit of one or more varieties of chili pepper, sometimes with the addition of other spices. Chili powder is sometimes known by the chili pepper used (such as cayenne pepper) and is incorporated in many different cuisines, including Tex-Mex, Indian, Chinese, Korean, and Thai. This spice is used to add pungency and flavor to dishes.

Here are the 6 health benefits of chili powder.

1. Chili powder can help improve cognitive functioning.

The amount of iron in chili powder leads to increased hemoglobin production and increases blood flow. Proper amounts of oxygen and iron in the brain lead to improved cognitive performance and a decrease in cognitive disorders like Alzheimer’s disease and dementia.

2. Chili powder helps support the digestive system.

Chili powder possesses a considerable amount of fiber. Fiber stimulates peristaltic motion and increased secretion of gastric juices, which eases digestion, prevents conditions like constipation, and protects the body from more serious conditions like colorectal cancer.

3. Chili powder can help keep your eyes healthy.

One tablespoon of chili powder in vitamin A with 9 percent of the recommended need. Vitamin A is known for improving your eyesight and preventing night blindness and macular degeneration from developing as we age.

4. Chili powder can help improve cognitive functioning.

The amount of iron in chili powder leads to increased hemoglobin production and increases blood flow. Proper amounts of oxygen and iron in the brain lead to improved cognitive performance and a decrease in cognitive disorders like Alzheimer’s disease and dementia.

5. Chili powder can help individuals fight infections.

Vitamin C is a potent natural water-soluble antioxidant that helps the body develop resistance against infectious agents and eliminates cancer-causing free radicals in the body.

6. Chili powder is great for the hair and skin.

Adequate vitamin C intake does not only improve the immune system but can also create and maintain collagen, an important protein found in hair and skin. Also, chili powder contains vitamin A to keep the hair moisturized through increased sebum production. Each tablespoon contains 44 percent of the daily recommended vitamin A. 

Lastly, chili powder is an excellent source of vitamin E is in skincare and hair care. Owing to its antioxidant properties, vitamin E promotes the circulation of blood to the scalp.