Chili powder is the dried, pulverized fruit of one or more varieties of chili pepper, sometimes with the addition of other spices. Chili powder is sometimes known by the chili pepper used (such as cayenne pepper) and is incorporated in many different cuisines, including Tex-Mex, Indian, Chinese, Korean and Thai. This spice is used to add pungency and flavor to dishes.

Here are the 7 health benefits of chili powder.

1.     Chili powder can help keep your eyes healthy.

One tablespoon of chili powder in vitamin A with 9 percent of the recommended need. Vitamin A is known for improving your eyesight and preventing night blindness and macular degeneration from developing as we age.

2.     Chili powder can assist in red blood cell formation.

Copper and iron are essential for the new blood cell formation. A deficiency in iron can lead to anemia, fatigue, and muscular weakness.

3.     Chili powder can help improve cognitive functioning.

The amount of iron in chili powder leads to increased hemoglobin production and increases blood flow. Proper amounts of oxygen and iron in the brain lead to improved cognitive performance and a decrease in cognitive disorders like Alzheimer’s disease and dementia.

4.     Chili powder can help maintain a healthy blood pressure.

Chili powder has a great potassium to sodium ratio. They are well known because of its high potassium content. One tablespoon of chili powder contains 144 milligrams of potassium, compared to just 75.8 milligrams of sodium. This helps the blood vessels relax and maintains proper blood pressure.

5.     Chili powder helps support the digestive system.

Chili powder possesses a considerable amount of fiber. Fiber stimulates peristaltic motion and increased secretion of gastric juices, which eases digestion, prevents conditions like constipation, and protects the body from more serious conditions like colorectal cancer.

6.     Chili powder can help individuals fight infections.

Vitamin C is a potent natural water-soluble antioxidant that helps the body develop resistance against infectious agents and eliminates cancer-causing free radicals in the body.

7.     Chili powder is great for the hair and skin.

Adequate vitamin C intake does not only improve the immune system but can also create and maintain collagen, an important protein found in hair and skin. Also, chili powder contains vitamin A to keep the hair moisturized through increased sebum production. Each tablespoon contains 44 percent of the daily recommended vitamin A.

Lastly, chili powder is an excellent source of vitamin E is in skin care and hair care. Owing to its antioxidant properties, vitamin E promotes the circulation of blood to the scalp.