Chilli Oil

This hot and spicy oil will add a fiery kick to any dish.

Nutrition

Chillies are part of the capsicum family and they come in different varieties and colours. They are spicy and they contain a substance called capsaicin located in the placenta of the chillies which generates the heat. The smaller the chilli, the hotter the taste. They cause a burning sensation in the mouth, eyes and any other parts of your body into which their juices come into contact. It is interesting to know that the reason why chilli peppers contain capsaicin is attributed to their plants that started producing this substance to protect themselves from being eaten by mammals. However, humans love chillies, as they release adrenaline after consumption. Some people talk about a “chilli endorphin high” (endorphines are natural opiates and induce a pervasive sense of happiness).

The spice is a rich source of antioxidants and is very high in vitamin C. 42 g of the spice accounts for your recommended daily allowance for vitamin C. Chilli peppers contain more vitamin C than oranges. Vitamin C is important to support and strengthen our immune system. A study conducted in China found that participants who said they eat chillies once or twice a week, have a mortality rate 10% lower than those who eat them less than once a week. This study shows that people who eat fresh chilli at least once a week have a stronger immune system and a lower risk of death from coronary heart disease and diabetes.

Several studies have also indicated that capsaicin is a potential weight loss tool: research shows that the molecule increases metabolic activity resulting in more energy burnt and prevention of weight loss. Capsaicin can also be used as a pain killer. It stimulates the neurons that after some time stop responding, killing the pain. The process involves the release of endorphins that, as mentioned above, bring joy and excitement. Hot chilli can be very addictive for some people. And what about you? Are you a chilli lover or hater?