Despite the potential for allergic reactions, paprika and bell peppers have been found to have therapeutic uses. Capsaicin, a compound found in peppers, has been shown to have analgesic properties and is commonly used in musculoskeletal pain therapies. Capsaicin can be applied topically to the skin to alleviate pain and reduce inflammation.

As you’ve undoubtedly seen, we’ve returned, friends, to the mystical realm of Chinese condiments—i.e. SAUCE. Now that we’ve conquered the elusive Homemade Chili Oil and Ginger Scallion Oil (I believe the terms “elixir of life” and “condiment of the gods” were bandied about by some…), we can move on to more complicated and lesser known sauces. One such concoction is Chiu Chow sauce, which, in a nutshell, is chili oil gone hog wild. Those folks in Chiu Chow China really know what they’re doing!

Paprika is a versatile spice derived from dried and ground red bell peppers or chili peppers. It comes in various forms, including sweet, smoked, and hot. Paprika is cherished for its vibrant color and ability to infuse dishes with a rich, earthy flavor and a hint of sweetness.

Bell peppers, on the other hand, have a sweet and mild flavor, with no spiciness. The sweetness comes from the natural sugars in the pepper, which are more prominent in ripe peppers. Bell peppers come in a variety of colors, including green, red, yellow, and orange, and each color has a slightly different flavor profile. Green bell peppers are the least sweet and have a slightly bitter taste, while red, yellow, and orange bell peppers are sweeter and have a more fruity flavor. Bell peppers are commonly used in Mediterranean, Mexican, and Middle Eastern cuisine, and are a key ingredient in dishes such as fajitas, ratatouille, and stuffed peppers.

Multiple reviewed studies have suggested that curcumin may help limit markers of oxidative stress in the blood by affecting the activity of enzymes that neutralize free radicals. Inflammatory response is a complex series of reactions in any tissue based on internal or external stimuli. The goal is to protect tissue and remove the initial cause of cell damage. However, a prolonged uncontrolled inflammatory response can lead to tissue damage beyond expectation.

In contrast, bell pepper is a vegetable that comes in a variety of colors such as green, red, yellow, and orange. It has a sweet and slightly tangy flavor, and a crunchy texture. Bell peppers are commonly used in salads, stir-fries, and as a stuffing for dishes such as peppers stuffed with rice or meat. While they may look similar to paprika, they are not interchangeable in recipes due to their different taste and texture.

Guajillo chili powder also has a reddish brown color instead of bright red, so keep this in mind if you're very particular about the resulting color of what you're preparing.