Paprika is a spice from the chili pepper family of the chili pepper family species Capsicum annuum. The seasoning is used to add color and flavor to many cuisines such as Turkey, Spain, Portugal, Greece, Hungary, Romania, Croatia, Serbia, Macedonia, Bulgaria, Morocco, and South Africa. It is mainly used to season and color rice, stews, and soups. 

Here are 7 health benefits of paprika.

1.     Paprika may have anti-aging effects.

Paprika is rich in beta-carotene, a precursor of vitamin A in the body. Vitamin A plays a crucial role in the maintenance of healthy skin. It prevents the prevalence of wrinkles and promotes a bright skin tone.

2.     Paprika can help keep your eyes healthy.

Paprika is rich in vitamin A with 71 percent of the recommended need per serving. Vitamin A is known for improving your eyesight and preventing night blindness and macular degeneration from developing as we age.

3.     Paprika can help prevent cancer.

The beta-carotene found in paprika has been associated with reduced risk of several cancers. Researchers have suggested that increasing beta-carotene consumption from 1.7 to 2.7 milligrams per day reduced lung cancer risk by more than 40 percent.

4.     Paprika may help improve the blood pressure.

Paprika can act as a vasodilator with the increased amounts of potassium. Vasodilators decrease vascular resistance, increasing blood flow and circulation. This reduces the risk of atherosclerosis, strokes, and heart attacks.

5.     Paprika can help with blood formation.

Copper and iron are essential for the new blood cell formation. One cup of paprika contains 9 percent and 2 percent of the recommended value of iron and copper, respectively. A deficiency of iron can lead to anemia.

6.     Paprika may help promote sound sleep.

Vitamin B6 in paprika has powerful neurological and psychological effects. It supplies the production of melatonin, helping you maintain a normal sleep cycle. Also, it enhances the body’s serotonin and norepinephrine levels, both of which enable you to stay happy and stress-free.

7.     Paprika can help heal wounds.

Paprika is an excellent source of vitamin E, which helps in producing red blood cells. It also helps in forming clots in case of cuts and wounds, aiding quick wound healing.