The Efficacy and Function of Chili Pepper

Mar 13, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhang Xiuhong
Introduction
In general, chili pepper root is the root of the Capsicum plant from the Solanaceae family. Chili pepper root has functions and effects such as relieving superficies symptoms and dispelling cold, warming the middle jiao to relieve pain, promoting qi circulation and activating blood, stimulating appetite and aiding digestion, as well as insecticidal and antibacterial actions. Chili pepper root should be used under the guidance of a physician, with appropriate dosage based on individual constitution and condition. Due to its hot nature, chili pepper root should be used cautiously by individuals with yin deficiency and internal heat, pregnant women, and patients suffering from hemorrhoids.

Generally, the chili root refers to the root of the Capsicum plant from the nightshade family. Chili root has various therapeutic effects and functions, including relieving superficies syndromes and dispersing cold, warming the middle-jiao to relieve pain, promoting qi circulation and activating blood, stimulating appetite and aiding digestion, as well as killing parasites and resisting bacteria. The specific details are as follows:

1. Relieve superficies syndromes and disperse cold

Chili root has the characteristics of acrid-warm property and dispersing action, which can expel cold pathogens from the body's surface and eliminate pathogenic factors. It is suitable for treating symptoms such as common cold caused by wind-cold, aversion to cold with fever, headache and body pain. By promoting blood circulation and increasing metabolism, it helps the body dispel cold pathogens and alleviate discomfort caused by cold invasion.

2. Warm the middle-jiao to relieve pain

Chili root warms the spleen and stomach, alleviating pain caused by cold pathogens or deficiency-cold of the spleen and stomach. It is suitable for treating epigastric pain due to cold in the stomach, diarrhea, vomiting, and other symptoms. By stimulating the secretion of digestive fluids, enhancing appetite, and improving digestive function, it helps relieve abdominal discomfort.

3. Promote qi circulation and activate blood

Chili root contains alkaloid substances and has the effect of promoting qi circulation and activating blood circulation. It is suitable for treating pain and swelling caused by qi stagnation and blood stasis. By dilating blood vessels, improving local blood circulation, and promoting the movement of qi and blood, it helps alleviate related symptoms.

4. Stimulate appetite and aid digestion

Chili root stimulates the taste buds, increases appetite, and promotes digestion and absorption of food. It is suitable for treating symptoms such as loss of appetite and indigestion. By promoting gastric juice secretion and enhancing gastrointestinal motility, it helps the body better absorb nutrients.

5. Kill parasites and resist bacteria

Chili root has certain antibacterial and antiviral effects, capable of inhibiting or killing pathogenic microorganisms. It is suitable for treating skin or intestinal diseases caused by bacterial or fungal infections. By inhibiting or eliminating pathogens, it promotes recovery from illness.

Chili root should be used under the guidance of a physician, with appropriate dosage based on individual constitution and condition. Due to its hot nature, it should be used cautiously by individuals with yin deficiency and internal heat, pregnant women, and patients with hemorrhoids. Additionally, chili root should be consumed in moderation, as excessive intake may cause adverse symptoms such as excessive internal heat, abdominal pain, and diarrhea.