In 1597, John Gerard, referring to the hot cayenne pepper, wrote: “It hath a diabolical quality in it…” But he added that “being exceedingly hot and dry, it is recommended for the scurvy” (a widespread infection of the throat and skin, known as “the King’s Evil”).
Capsicum frutescens
The main components of chili-cayenne are alkaloids, fatty acids, vitamins A1, B1, C, volatile oil, sugars and carotene - and these make it a blood circulation stimulant, diaphoretic, stomach stimulant, antiseptic, antibacterial, stimulant and tonic of the nervous system, while its topical use can treat irritations and increase local blood flow.
Recently, videos have been circulating on the internet, which recommend a special use of chili-cayenne, which is beneficial for circulatory issues - regulation of heart function - prevention of heart attacks, etc.: half a teaspoon of cayenne dissolved in water can save the patient from serious arrhythmia, even just before a heart attack. A well-known herbalist, when asked “which herb would be important for someone to always have with them”, answered “cayenne”.
Otherwise, cayenne stimulates the appetite, according to its recorded properties, but at the same time relieves indigestion (traditional Chinese medicine says that it activates the power of Yang). The fact that it is a diaphoretic makes it ideal for colds, tonsillitis or other inflammations of the throat. Its intervention in blood flow has proven that it can also soften migraines. Less commonly, it is used as an ointment or oil with cayenne infusion, for skin issues.
The active ingredient in cayenne is capsaicin, which has been the focus of studies, mainly in animals, which have shown that cayenne can also contribute to weight loss (due to the activation of brown adipose tissue), or to stimulating metabolism, oxygenation of the body and the assimilation of nutrients from food. Other important functions include the oxidation of adipose tissue, the regulation of blood pressure, the healthy functioning of the liver and tissues, while it is also recorded as an aphrodisiac.
In addition to animal studies, NHANES used data from 16.000 American citizens (whites from Mexico and the US, citizens who drank alcohol, among others), who were followed for 23 years while consuming cayenne. The results of the studies reported that these people had lower cholesterol levels compared to citizens who did not consume cayenne. They also reported a delay in mortality (an area that is of course subject to further study).
Ο fruit of chili-cayenne can be used as an infusion (1 tablespoon of cayenne in 1 cup of boiling water and then diluted again with hot water): this helps with colds, chills, and warming cold extremities.
As a tincture (5-10 drops in half a cup of water) it works as a circulation stimulant and body tonic.
As a compress (soaked patch made from infusion), it helps with rheumatic pains, bruises, and sprains.
As an ointment, it helps with shingles (as long as there is no open wound).
As a gargle, it can help with all throat problems caused by inflammation (5-10 drops of tincture in half a glass of warm water).
As an oil infusion (25 g of powder in half a liter of sunflower oil, in warm form), it can help the legs around varicose veins.
As a massage oil (infusion oil) it helps with rheumatism, arthritis and lumbago.
Common precautions:
Cayenne pepper seeds are potentially toxic, so they should be avoided to prevent the possibility of gastroenteritis.
If a cayenne compress is used, it should not remain in contact with the skin for a long time, especially if the skin is sensitive.
And most importantly, do not touch your eyes after contact with cayenne products!
Cayenne as a spice
Cayenne pepper is used in many cuisines and recipes around the world, and even in confectionery. It is also called Guinea spice as it “originates” from the well-known region.
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