Cayenne pepper has been prized for thousands of years for its healing power. It has been known to successfully treat anything from heart disease, toothaches, and sore throats. Applied topically, it can help skin conditions and reduce pain. Among its many benefits, this potent herb can also be used as a natural cellulite treatment. What is the reasoning behind this and how does it work? Let’s find out.
What is cayenne pepper?
Cayenne pepper, also known as guinea or bird pepper, is a hot red chili pepper used to flavor dishes. Named for the city of Cayenne in French Guiana, it is also widely used for medicinal purposes. Capsaic, the main compound that gives the plant its heat, is also responsible for its health benefits. Generally, hotter peppers contain more capsaic, so hotter peppers tend to provide more benefits. Because of this, weed is often labeled in heat units of 40,000, 60,000, 90,000, or higher. Lower heat cayenne peppers, such as those labeled for 30,000 heat units, are much less efficient and are the most contaminated.
How does it work?
When it comes to a natural cellulite treatment, this chili is a key ingredient. Cellulite is partially the result of impaired lymphatic flow. It begins when numerous fat cells accumulate in one area. Toxins and lymphatic fluid accumulate in the pockets of fat causing the skin to bulge. The dimpling effect occurs when connective fibers in the skin pull down on areas where body fat is pushing up. Cayenne pepper is the greatest known stimulant of blood circulation. And because it supports the lymphatic system, consuming the spice can help flush toxins from the body and reduce the appearance of dimpling on the skin.
Not only that, the topical application can also provide positive results. When applied to the affected area, the water and oil soluble compounds in cayenne can dilate capillaries and help increase circulation. These compounds can also penetrate skin tissue and treat the broken blood vessels that often accompany cellulite-prone areas. Applying cayenne to the skin can further increase the effectiveness of other ingredients such as coffee and fucus, allowing them to work at their maximum effectiveness.
Cayenne pepper is known as an ancient healer for many reasons. It has the ability to heal the body from the inside out and for this reason, it has been used successfully as a natural cellulite treatment. Although it is pungent, it is an extremely calming and healing herb. Now that’s hot.
