Paprika extract is a powerful antioxidant that has numerous health benefits, including hepatoprotective properties. This article examines the hepatoprotective effects of Paprika, and its effects on oxidative stress. Its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties make it an excellent addition to your diet.
Paprika’s hepatoprotective effect
Paprika has been shown to have a hepatoprotective effect in a recent study. The study looked at the carotenoid content in non-polar solvent extract of paprika. It found that higher capsanthin content was associated with higher hepatoprotective activity.
Paprika is a pepper product that contains capsanthin and mixed carotenoids. These pigments include b-carotene, zeaxanthin, and capsorubin from Capsicum annuum. These compounds have biological activities associated with disease prevention, which may explain why paprika is considered a safe alternative to artificial colouring agents.
Paprika is also rich in antioxidants. It contains almost half of the recommended daily allowance of vitamin A for both men and women. Vitamin A has several beneficial effects on the immune system, including aiding organ development during pregnancy. Paprika is also high in beta-carotene, which can protect against eye fatigue and prevent presbyopia. It has been shown to be effective in preventing presbyopia and is a potential anti-aging food. However, despite the many benefits paprika offers, there is no definitive proof that it can protect livers from disease.
The best way to preserve paprika for its medicinal benefits is to store it in an air-tight container and keep it in a dark place. Heat and light can destroy paprika’s potency. Because of these reasons, it is important to use it within six months of purchase.
Its hepatoprotective effect on oxidative stress
This study has shown that consumption of smoked paprika is associated with increased antioxidant defences. It is believed that the polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in smoked paprika may activate the GSH cycle and activate antioxidant enzymes.
Capsanthin, a major carotenoid in red paprika, was studied in mice with a model of NAFLD. Specifically, mice with apolipoprotein-E knockouts were fed a Western-type diet containing capsanthin. In addition, mice were given a mixture of red paprika powder and a capsanthin-rich extract for 12 weeks. The researchers then analyzed the amount of carotenoid content using ultra-performance liquid chromatography.
Red paprika contains eight different carotenoid compounds. In addition to capsanthin, the plant contains neoxanthin, zeaxanthin, and capsorubin. All eight of these compounds have biological properties.
Paprika has a hepatoprotective effect on lipid peroxidation. Moreover, it protects liver cells from damage caused by xenobiotics and oxidative stress. Researchers have shown that fresh young shoots tincture is a powerful antioxidant. The tincture is a potent source of polyphenols and terpenes.