Cayenne Pepper Health Benefits and Nutrition Facts

Nutritional summary

Cayenne pepper contains capsaicin (the compound responsible for its heat), which is linked to cardiovascular benefits; large epidemiological studies have observed lower rates of hypertension and reduced mortality from heart attacks or strokes among regular chili-eaters .
These peppers provide a concentrated source of antioxidants, including carotenoids (pigments that convert to vitamin A) and phenolic acids, which help neutralize reactive oxygen species (unstable molecules that can damage cells) .
While high in essential minerals like potassium, magnesium, and iron, the practical nutritional contribution of cayenne is typically limited by the small quantities used in standard culinary applications .
Early research suggests that cayenne pepper has a minimal impact on the gut microbiota (the community of microorganisms in the digestive tract) and does not significantly alter intestinal inflammation in healthy adults .

Interesting fact

The name 'Cayenne' is thought to be derived from the Tupi word 'kyinha', meaning pepper, and is also the name of the capital city of French Guiana.

Standout nutrients

EPIC

SOURCE

Vitamin A

EPIC

SOURCE

Iron

EPIC

SOURCE

Manganese

EPIC

SOURCE

beta-Carotene

318

kcal per 100g

Protein12.0g

Fat17.3g

Carbs31.7g

Fat breakdown

Polyunsat9.40g

Monounsat1.90g

Saturated2.60g

Seasonality

Not available

Diet

VeganVegetarianPescatarianGluten FreeDairy FreeKetoLow FodmapPaleo

Sustainability

Lighter footprint

Spices have low weight-to-value ratios and minimal water footprints compared to fresh produce.

Confidencemedium

Storage

Airtight Container

1–2 years

Store in a cool, dark place to preserve potency and color.

Away From Direct Sunlight

1–2 years

Flavour

Data & Sources

Harmonized from 1 validated source

McCance & Widdowson

1 contributing source food

Claim citations

Minimal Influence of Cayenne Pepper on the Human Gastrointestinal Microbiota and Intestinal Inflammation in Healthy Adult Humans—A Pilot Study - PMC

[1]pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

The suitability of chili pepper (Capsicum annuum L.) for alleviating human micronutrient dietary deficiencies: A review - PMC

[5]pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

Dietary Capsaicin: A Spicy Way to Improve Cardio-Metabolic Health? - PMC

[6]pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

A Comprehensive Review on Characterization of Pepper Seeds: Unveiling Potential Value and Sustainable Agrifood Applications - PMC

[8]pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

Coverage

Nutrients

FoodCompass

69.6

Version

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