Chili peppers have passionate fans around the world—not just for their fiery heat, but also for the rich, bold flavor and vibrant color they bring to dishes. Originally from the Americas, chili peppers spread globally through trade in the 16th century and quickly became a beloved ingredient in many cuisines, including Japan. From simple pickles to hearty stir-fries, they add both flavor and vitality to the table.

In Traditional Chinese Medicine, chili peppers are valued for their strong warming properties. They are often used to dispel internal cold and relieve cold-related discomforts such as stomachaches, joint pain, poor circulation, or stiff shoulders. Their ability to stimulate blood flow and promote sweating also makes them useful during chilly winter months, damp rainy seasons, or even humid, muggy weather when the body feels heavy and sluggish.

Beyond their traditional role, chili peppers are also rich in capsaicin, a natural compound known to boost metabolism and support circulation. In moderation, they can encourage appetite and digestion, making them a stimulating addition to the diet.

That said, balance is key. Overconsumption of chili peppers may lead to side effects, especially for those with a heat-dominant constitution, people prone to skin flare-ups or sore throats, or those with a sensitive or weak stomach. It’s always best to listen to your body: enjoy their warming benefits when you feel cold or sluggish, but ease up if you notice signs of excess heat such as irritability, dryness, or digestive upset.

Yakuzen Classifications
Nature – Hot (熱)
Channels – Heart (心), Spleen (脾)
Flavor – Pungent (辛)

How do chili peppers help you?

1. Dispel cold
2. Warm the spleen and stomach
3. Improve the spleen function and digestion
4. Promote blood circulation

Good for the following symptoms

1. Cold-related pains
2. Poor appetite
3. Indigestion
4. Chilblain

Japanese home dishes with chili peppers

1. Pickled Japanese Turnip
2. Stir-fried eggplant & bell pepper with miso sauce

Cautions

It's very important to know about your body conditions before choosing foods.
Do not eat too much of particular foods at once.
Do not eat the foods you are allergic to.
There are foods to avoid if you are pregnant / have a disease. Ask your doctor before you start Yakuzen.