Does Cayenne Water Have Health Benefits?

Could cayenne pepper water be the key to feeling good and staying injury-free? According to New York Jets quarterback Aaron Rodgers, maybe.

In a new interview with Associated PressRodgers, 40, said he drank cayenne pepper water as part of his rehab regimen. (Rodgers has reportedly dealt with hamstring, knee and ankle injuries this season.)

“T-Mo (New York Jets punter Thomas Morstead) gave me a little fountain of youth that he said he’s been taking for a while,” Rodgers told A? Tuesday. “All legal, of course. … He took like cayenne pepper and water, so he gave me some before the game.”

both ESPN and the A? noted that the combination of cayenne pepper and water may have “multiple” health benefits, with the potential to relieve pain and aid metabolic and gastrointestinal health — but what does the science say? Here’s what you need to know before trying the spicy elixir.

Research has not looked at the effects of cayenne pepper water on human health, but there is some research that supports its use capsaicinthe active compound in cayenne.

“Capsaicin can slightly boost metabolism by increasing thermogenesis, helping the body burn calories more efficient” Scott Keatley, RDco-owner of Keatley Medical Nutrition Therapy, said Health. “It can also aid digestion by stimulating digestive enzymes and increasing stomach acid, potentially supporting smoother digestion in those without sensitivity issues.”

Some studies have also found that cayenne can act as a mild anti-inflammatory agent “that can provide pain relief, especially in cases of joint or muscle discomfort,” Keatley said.

But while capsaicin has been associated with pain relief in therapeutic or high doses, “a beverage containing cayenne may or may not contribute to that amount.” Jessica Cording, MS, RDauthor of The Little Book of Game Changers: 50 Healthy Habits for Managing Stress and Anxietyhe said Health.

Jamie Alan, Ph.Dassociate professor of pharmacology and toxicology at Michigan State University, agrees: “I don’t think taking cayenne by mouth will provide much pain relief.”

However, topical cayenne or capsaicin may do something to relieve the pain. “Cayenne depletes substance P, which is a chemical involved in pain transmission,” Alan said, noting that there are now various over-the-counter creams and patches that contain capsaicin.

“The effect is that once you apply the cream to your skin, it will burn,” Alan said. “The application of capsaicin will cause a transient increase in the release of substance P—which causes the burning—and subsequently, substance P will be depleted locally for a period of time, leading to local pain relief.”

Keatley also points out that cayenne contains fiber, which can help support gut health and satiety. “Although you’re unlikely to get a substantial dose of fiber just by adding it to water, the high fiber content of the spice in general can be beneficial when incorporated into a balanced diet,” he said.

But Cording said the “fountain of youth” claims are simply not accurate.

“When it comes to promoting longevityI generally recommend eating an overall healthy diet – research points to the benefits of the Mediterranean diet and similar eating patterns – being physically active, prioritizing good sleep and managing stress,” she said. “If you’re not taking care of yourself in other ways, drinking cayenne in your water isn’t going to help you in the long run.”

Overall, Alan said that drinking cayenne pepper water “probably won’t be harmful unless you have gastrointestinal problems like stomach ulcers.” If you have a sensitivity to peppers, you may feel uncomfortable for about 15 minutes after drinking the mixture, she said.

If you have hemorrhoids, acid reflux or irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) “can increase discomfort and exacerbate symptoms,” Keatley said.

Another thing to keep in mind, according to Keatley: capsaicin can interact with some medications, esp blood thinners. “It’s always best to consult with a healthcare provider before making cayenne pepper a regular part of your diet,” he said.

Overall, Keatley recommends taking a “balanced view” of cayenne water consumption.

“Cayenne pepper water may provide some minor metabolic and digestive benefits, but these effects are temporary,” he said. “While capsaicin may provide a short-term boost to metabolism and digestive support, it is not a substitute for a balanced diet or long-term health strategies. It’s definitely not the fountain of youth.”