CAYENNE pepper is truly a super spice that can be both ingested and applied topically.

While you may be aware of the health benefits, did you know that cayenne pepper is actually amazing for your skin? For both minor and major blemishes, cayenne pepper can improve the look and feel of your skin.

Cayenne pepper actually increases blood flow to your skin, bringing with it oxygen and many essential nutrients. Below are three skin conditions that can be relieved with the help of cayenne pepper.

Acne

While there are many genetic factors involved with acne, it is also caused by our diet and lifestyle.

Acne is caused by blocked skin pores that then cause backed-up bacteria to grow and cause non-inflammatory acne (whiteheads and blackheads) or inflammatory acne (papule and pustule).

Cayenne pepper helps to stimulate the blood flow and open clogged pores. You can mix some cayenne pepper with warm water and drink in the morning, or you can apply cayenne pepper to the affected area. If you only have a couple of pimples, it is best to apply it topically, but if you have serious acne then ingesting the pepper as part of a daily regimen is the best long-term solution.

Poison ivy

The active ingredient in cayenne pepper, capsaicin, will help relieve the itching and dryness caused by poison ivy.

The heat from the cayenne pepper will stimulate endorphins, which will ease the pain and help prevent you from scratching and spreading the oil from the poison ivy.

Just mix the cayenne pepper with some water and apply it. To be safe, make sure you use gloves so you don’t spread the poison ivy while you are treating it.

Psoriasis

Psoriasis is a skin condition that is marked by flaky, irritated skin. It often creates scaly patches that appear most often on your elbows, knees and scalp.

Psoriasis is a reoccurring condition that is uncomfortable and painful. Cayenne pepper is a great natural treatment for the condition.

While it is not advised to apply it topically for this condition since it can burn and further aggravate the psoriasis, it is important to add cayenne pepper to your diet. You can make a drink with warm water or just simply add it as a condiment to your meals.

You can also buy capsules to take as a supplement if that is the most convenient way for you to get it into your diet or if you do not like spicy foods.

Cayenne pepper for weight loss

Cayenne pepper is a natural herb that may help you lose weight. This red pepper may curb your appetite, speed up your metabolism, and help you burn calories.

The main active ingredient in cayenne pepper, capsaicin, is also found in other types of peppers. Researchers believe that capsaicin is a thermogenic chemical. A thermogenic chemical may help speed up your metabolism and decrease your appetite.

Studies have found that consuming cayenne pepper for breakfast creates less appetite, so people eat less calories throughout the day. It also burns excess fat because of its ability to regulate metabolism.

Cayenne pepper has been found to effectively normalise glucose levels. It keeps blood pressure levels normal and helps the body lower LDL (bad) cholesterol and triglycerides.

Cayenne pepper has the power to soothe inflammation and bloating that comes from allergies, food sensitivities and infections, thus aiding in weight loss.

Cayenne tea recipe (for detox benefits)

Ingredients:

1 glass of warm or hot water (12-16 oz)

2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar

2 tablespoons lemon juice

½-1 teaspoon ground ginger

¼ teaspoon cinnamon

1 dash cayenne pepper

1 teaspoon raw, local honey (optional)

Directions:

Warm the water. Mix all ingredients together. Best served warm, but drink at desired temperature.

Michelle Vernon is a phlebotomist medical aesthetician who operates the Body Studio Skincare, located at 20 Constant Spring Road, Mall Plaza, Kingston 10, and Fairview Shopping Centre, Montego Bay. She may be reached at telephone 908-0438 or 684-9800; IG @ bodystudioskincare; E-mail: bodystudioskincare@gmail.com; Website: www.bodystudioskincare.com.