Latin Name: Capsicum frutescens
Alternate Names: African Pepper, Bird Pepper, Capsicum, Chili Pepper, Marichi-phalam (Sanskrit)
Family: SOLANACEAE
Parts Used: Fruit.
Properties: Alterative, Anthelmintic, Anti-inflammatory, Antioxidant, Antiseptic, Antiviral, Astringent, Carminative, Circulatory Tonic, Counterirritant, Diaphoretic, Expectorant, Hemostatic, Rubefacient, Sialagogue, Stimulant, Tonic
Internal Uses: Arthritis, Bleeding, Chills, Colds, Cough, Dysentery, Headache, High Cholesterol, Migraine, Pain, Poor Circulation, Shingles, Sinus Congestion, Worms
Internal Applications: Tincture, Capsules
Cayenne causes the brain to secrete more endorphins. Cayenne is rich in vitamin C. It is considered thermogenic, meaning it can rev up metabolism and aid in weight loss. Cayenne also improves circulation. Cayenne helps to relieve pain, not only due to its endorphin enhancing properties, but also when diluted and used topically it helps to block the transmission of substance P, which transports pain messages to the brain.
Topical Uses: Arthritis, Bruises, Pain, Sore Throat, Sprains, Wounds
Topical Applications: Gargle for sore throat, apply topically to bleeding wounds to stop the blood flow. Lotions and creams may be purchased that contain the active ingredient, capsaicin, which is applied topically to arthritic joints, sprains and bruises.
Putting a bit of Cayenne between your shoes and socks on a cold winters day helps to keep the feet warm.
Culinary uses: Salsas, chilis, curries, sauces (such as Tabasco).
Energetics: Pungent, Hot, Dry.
Chemical Constituents: Capsaicin, capsanthine, beta carotene, flavonoids, vitamin C.
Contraindications: Keep away from eyes and mucus membranes. Wash hands after contact with any loose form of cayenne. If you ingest cayenne and it is scorching your mouth, rather than drinking water, use milk or beer — whichever is closest — to quell the fire. Avoid large doses when pregnant and nursing. Seeds can be especially hot and in some varieties are best avoided. Large doses may irritate the gastro-intestinal tract and kidneys.
Comments: Cayenne peppers vary greatly in the amount of heat and are actually categorized from anywhere between 0 to 300,000 scovile units. Green peppers are 0 while the hottest, such as Habaneros, are 300,000. A more modern system simply rates heat on a scale of 1 to 10. Many people consume lots of hot peppers in tropical climates as the heat will induce perspiration, which actually helps a person to cool off.
The common name Cayenne Pepper also includes the species Capsicum annuum, a species that includes both Chili Peppers and Paprika.