Red Chilli: Uses, Benefits, Side Effects By Dr. Smita Barode

Introduction

If you are a fan of spicy food, you will always turn to Mexican or Indian cuisines. But do you know what makes those cuisines so spicy? The answer is red chillies! Hot and spicy red chilli pepper is the most widely used spice and condiment in Indian and Mexican cuisines. Red chilli is highly valued for its pungency and added flavours to various dishes throughout the world¹. 

The hot red chilli is believed to have originated in Mexico and is now grown in tropical and subtropical regions of the United States of America, India, Japan, Turkey, and African countries. About 90% of chilli is produced in Asian countries^1,2.

The scientific name of red chilli is Capsicum annuum and it belongs to the family Solanaceae. Red chillies are a great source of vitamins, flavonoids, phenolics, carotenoids, and alkaloids, which play a vital role in human health².

Read along to learn more about the health benefits of red chilli and next time you will find yourself adding it to your meal. 

Nutritional Value of Red Chilli

Red chillies are a rich source of various vitamins, minerals and proteins (amino acids) necessary for human health. They also contain essential phytochemicals such as alkaloids (capsaicin), flavonoids and phenolics that are important antioxidants¹. The detailed nutritional value of red chilli is as follows: 

• Energy: 40 kcal
• Carbohydrate: 8.81 g
• Protein: 1.87 g
• Fibre: 1.5 g
• Fats: 0.44 g
• Sugar: 5.3 g
• Sodium: 9 mg
• Potassium: 322 mg
• Calcium: 14 mg
• Magnesium: 23 mg
• Iron: 1.03 mg
• Phosphorous: 43 mg
• Zinc: 0.26 mg
• Copper: 0.129 mg
• Manganese: 0.187 mg
• Selenium: 0.5 µg
• Vitamin A: 144 mg
• Vitamin B1: 0.072 mg
• Vitamin B2: 0.086 mg
• Vitamin B3: 1.24 mg
• Vitamin C: 144 mg
• Vitamin E: 0.69 mg
• Vitamin K: 14 µg
• Vitamin B9: 23 µg
• Choline: 10.9 mg
• Beta-carotene: 534 µg
• Alpha-carotene: 36 µg
• Tryptophan: 0.026 g
• Threonine: 0.074 g
• Isoleucine: 0.065 g
• Leucine: 0.105 g
• Lysine: 0.089 g

Did you know that chili peppers are not only known for their spicy flavor, but they are also packed with beneficial nutrients? They are rich in carotenoids, which are converted into vitamin A in the body, and they also contain high levels of vitamin C. In fact, chili peppers can provide up to 336% of the recommended daily allowance for vitamin A and 124-338% of the vitamin C activity per 100 grams⁴.

Dr. Siddharth Gupta, B.A.M.S, M.D (Ayu)

Properties of Red Chilli

Red chilli contains a high amount of beneficial health compounds that² may be responsible for various biological activities of the body. The beneficial properties of red chilli are as follows: 

• It may have analgesic properties (relieves pain)  
• It may have anti-inflammatory action  
• It may have antimicrobial activity  
• It may have antioxidant activity  
• It may have anti-ulcer activity  
• It may have anti-cancer activity  
• It may have a memory-enhancing ability  
• It may have a blood sugar-lowering effect  
• It may have a blood pressure-lowering effect  
• It may have a cholesterol-lowering effect  
• It may have anticoagulant activity  
• It may aid in weight management  
• It may have anthelmintic properties (stops worm infestation)  
• It may have wound-healing activity².  

In my experience, I have observed that chili seed essential oil has various applications beyond its culinary use. It can be used in aromatherapy to promote relaxation and a sense of well-being. Additionally, it is suitable for cosmetic purposes, such as in personal care products, soaps, perfumes, and even candles. Its aromatic properties can provide a pleasant scent and enhance the overall sensory experience⁵.

Dr. Rajeev Singh, BAMS

Potential Uses of Red Chilli

Red chilli is used as a spice and condiment. It is one of the most important plants used for managing various ailments for a long time in different countries and older civilizations¹. The red chilli health benefits are described as follows: 

1. Potential Uses of Red Chilli for Osteoarthritis Pain

According to the report by Arthritis Research UK, red chilli capsaicin might be useful in overcoming osteoarthritis (joint pain) and fibromyalgia (muscle pain) in humans. This is because capsaicin may have the ability to reduce the supply of substance P, (a pain-causing neurotransmitter) which sends the signal of pain to your brain, thereby stopping the transmission of pain in the body¹. Hence, red chillies might be good for overcoming pain-related osteoarthritis. However, this information is insufficient to use red chillies alone to treat arthritis pain. Therefore, more studies on humans are required. 

2. Potential Uses of Red Chilli for Inflammation

In animal model studies (Monsereenusorn et al. 1980), it was found that red chilli may have an anti-inflammatory activity which might be useful in reducing swelling. The anti-inflammatory effect of red chilli may be contributed by its phenolic and flavonoid compounds. In addition, capsaicinoids and capsinoids, both of which are alkaloid compounds found in red chillies, might also have anti-inflammatory activities, which stop the production of inflammation-causing molecules in the body². However, more studies on humans are required to suggest the effects of red chillies in managing inflammation in the human body. 

3. Potential Uses of Red Chilli for Obesity

According to the studies (Arora et al., 2011 and Whiting et al., 2012), red chillies may have a potential role in weight management. In various animal and clinical studies, it was found to reduce body fat accumulation and increase fat metabolism. In addition, clinical studies have observed that regular intake of red chilli might increase the body temperature and oxygen demand resulting in a reduction of body weight and oxidation of body fat. It also increases energy expenditure and reduces hunger assisting in weight loss². Although studies show the benefits of red chilli in weight loss, a doctor’s consultation is important before using red chillies in your weight loss regime and only use them if prescribed. 

4. Potential Uses of Red Chilli for Diabetes

As per a review article by (Gautami J. et al., 2015),  red chillies may have a blood sugar-lowering activity. The regular consumption of red chilli may attenuate post-meal serum glucose production. Red chilli may be able to inactivate certain enzymes responsible for glucose production. An animal study (Anthony et al., 2013) observed that the blood glucose levels and body weight of the animal model were bettered². However, these studies are conducted on animals and not on humans. Therefore, large-scale human studies are required to suggest the effectiveness of red chillies in managing diabetes in humans. Diabetes is a severe health condition that requires a proper diagnosis and treatment. Hence, contact a doctor and ask for their advice. 

5. Other Potential Uses of Red Chilli

• In old civilizations, Mayas and Aztecs, people used red chillies for coughs, asthma, soreness and to relieve toothaches¹.
• Red chilli contains phytochemicals such as phenolics, flavonoids and vitamins, which are essential antioxidants that may help reduce degenerative disorders¹.
• Red chilli may act as an analgesic agent (pain-killer) due to a vital component it contains, capsaicin. Therefore, red chillies might be used in dermal patches, nasal sprays or topical ointments to relieve pain¹.
• Red chillies may have antimicrobial properties that might effectively manage infections caused by bacteria, fungi and other viruses¹.
• Red chilli may be beneficial for many ailments such as stiff joints, bronchitis, headache and cough¹.
• A human study² by (Snider M. et al. 1992) observed that patients who took nasal spray made from red chilli capsaicin alleviated problems such as sneezing, congestion and rhinitis (stuffy nose).
• Red chillies may have wound-healing action. The capsaicin may have shown gradual healing of the skin lesions. The topical capsaicin has effectively acted on pruritus (itching sensation) associated with psoriasis (skin disease)².

Though studies show the benefits of red chilli in various health conditions, these are not sufficient and require further studies to establish the true scope of the benefits of red chilli on human health². 

It is important to note that some individuals may have a hypersensitivity or allergy to chili or its products. If you experience any adverse reactions or discomfort after consuming or handling chili, it is advised to avoid it and seek medical advice. Please exercise caution when handling chilies as they may cause irritation or burning sensations to the eyes and skin⁵.

Dr. Smita Barode, B.A.M.S, M.S.

How to Use Red Chilli?

Red chilli is a versatile vegetable it can be used in both fresh and dried (powdered) forms. It is a widely used spice and condiment¹. You may use red chillies as:

• A fresh or processed vegetable  
• A powdered spice in dried forms to make your soup/sauce spicy 
• As a food dye to give your dish a spicy-red appearance 
• Dry red chillies are used to prepare a popular sauce called ‘Shiro’ powder¹. 

Do not use too much red chilli powder; excess consumption might cause harmful effects². We advise you not to replace or quit your current medications with any ayurvedic or herbal preparations of red chilli without consulting a physician or an Ayurvedic doctor. They will recommend you the best form to have it. 

Side Effects of Red Chilli

Although various studies show that red chillies are safe, some reports indicate that they may have certain side effects². Red chilli side effects are described as follows: 

• Skin injury: Initial contact of red chilli to skin might cause violent skin irritation. 
  • Burning pain 
  • Tingling (prickling sensation) 
  • Erythema (skin redness) 
  • Oedema (swelling) 
  • Blisters 
  • Pruritus (itching)²

• Eye injury: Initial contact with the eyes might cause involuntary reflex closing of the eyelids. 
  • Redness of the eyes 
  • Swelling 
  • Persistent pain 
  • Lacrimation (excess tearing) 
  • Photophobia²

• Nasal injury: The inhalation of red chilli powder might cause immediate inflammation of the mucous membrane of the respiratory tract. 
  • Throat irritation 
  • Burning sensation  
  • Coughing or choking 
  • Shortness of breath 
  • Constant sneezing 
  • Inability to speak²

• Stomach injury: Excess consumption of red chillies for a longer duration might cause stomach discomfort. 
  • Cramping 
  • Pain 
  • Loose motions 
  • Chronic gastritis 
  • Kidney/liver damage²

• Extreme injury: Red chillies may contain aflatoxin (carcinogen). Aflatoxin contamination may be due to poor farming, harvesting and post-harvesting practices which might cause undesirable effects on health².
  • Skin cancer 
  • High blood pressure 
  • Headache 
  • Increased risk of strokes and heart attacks².

However, if you see any of these side effects, immediately rush to the hospital, contact your concerned doctors, and get appropriate treatment.  

Precautions to Take with Red Chilli

Consuming red chilli in small quantities is safe. However, general precautions must be followed due to the side effects and drug interactions. . 

• People taking blood pressure medications should avoid red chillies as their components might interact with these medicines, resulting in loss of drug efficacy².
• There is no major report suggesting the safe use of red chillies for pregnant and breastfeeding women. Therefore, you should take advise a physician before having it as a herb as it contains certain toxins which might affect your health.  
• People should be extra cautious while giving red chillies to small children and older adults because red chillies have side effects that might cause stomach discomfort in children and older people.  
• People should not use red chillies to self-medicate. A doctor’s consultation is important to avoid further complications.  

Red chillies might cause life-threatening toxicity. Therefore, it is necessary to understand the risk associated with this herb and make yourself aware of this uncommon presentation of red chillies affecting your health. 

Interaction with Other Drugs

According to a report (Schep et al., 2015), red chilli might interact with certain medications, resulting in herb-drug interaction².

• The co-administration of red chillies and aspirin and salicylic compounds might be harmful².  
• Red chillies might also decrease the activity of α-adrenergic blockers (blood pressure medicines) such as methyldopa and clonidine².

Therefore, if you are on hypertension medicines, avoid having too many red chillies. If any complications are observed, immediately rush to the hospital. In addition, we recommend you disclose your ongoing treatments to your doctors and follow the precautions and dosage prescribed to you. 

Also Read: Cluster Beans: Uses, Benefits, Side Effects By Dr. Siddharth Gupta

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

References

1. Khiar Saleh, Omer A, Teweldemedhin B. Medicinal uses and health benefits of chili pepper (Capsicum spp.): a review. MOJ Food Process Technol. 2018;6(4):325–8. Available from: https://medcraveonline.com/MOJFPT/MOJFPT-06-00183.pdf 
2. Parvez Masud. Current Advances in Pharmacological Activity and Toxic Effects of  Various Capsicum Species. Interna J of Pharmaceu Sci and Resea. 2017;8(5):1900–12. Available from: https://www.researchgate.net/publication/324982926_CURRENT_ADVANCES_IN_PHARMACOLOGICAL_ACTIVITY_AND_TOXIC_EFFETCS_OF_VARIOUS_CAPSICUM_SPECIES/link/623ea69c8068956f3c4c189e/download 
3. US Department of Agriculture [Internet]. FoodData Central. Pepper, hot chilli, red, raw; 2019 Apr 1 [cited 2022 Jul 20]. Available from: https://fdc.nal.usda.gov/fdc-app.html#/food-details/170106/nutrients 
4. Azlan A, Sultana S, Huei CS, Razman MR. Antioxidant, Anti-Obesity, Nutritional and Other Beneficial Effects of Different Chili Pepper: A Review. Molecules. 2022 Jan 28;27(3):898. doi: 10.3390/molecules27030898. PMID: 35164163; PMCID: PMC8839052. Available from: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8839052/
5. Chakrabarty S, Islam AKMM, Islam AKMA. Nutritional Benefits and Pharmaceutical Potentialities of Chili: A Review. Fundam Appl Agric. 2017;2(2):227–32. doi:10.5455/faa. Available from: https://www.researchgate.net/publication/316716843_Nutritional_Benefits_and_Pharmaceutical_Potentialities_of_Chili_A_Review

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