The active ingredient in cayenne pepper is a substance called capsaicin, which is a thermogenic chemical that helps speed up your metabolism (meaning you burn more calories!), according to Healthline. Plus, a study published in the research journal Appetite showed that adding cayenne pepper to your diet has the ability to make you feel more full after eating and to decrease food cravings.
Cayenne's benefits go beyond your waistline. It also contains antioxidants, including Vitamins A and C, and may have anti-inflammatory properties. It's said to improve circulation and digestion, possibly protect against heart disease, work as a natural mood booster, and clear toxins from the blood (via Very Well Fit). And Men's Journal calls cayenne pepper tea a natural decongestant, particularly if prepared with lemon and honey.
Still not sure you want to drink the stuff? If you'd rather not commit to an entire cup of cayenne tea, you can try making a type of tincture instead. Dissolve one teaspoon of cayenne in a cup of water and then consume just a teaspoonful several times a day. If you're okay with pepper but not such a fan of tea, though, you can always do as the Pioneer Woman does and add a little cayenne to your coffee.
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