Cayenne (capsicum annuum)

Depending on where you live, you might feel like me this winter–cold! Maybe that’s why I’ve been cooking more with cayenne pepper than normal. It warms my tummy and all the way down to my toes! Of course, brandy might do the same thing, but did you know that cayenne has many additional health benefits?

Cayenne is primarily considered a stimulant and is used with that in mind. You will find small amounts in many herbal combinations because it is believed to increase the effectiveness of other herbs as well.

Cayenne is a useful tonic for the circulatory and digestive systems. It stimulates blood flow which in turn strengthens the heart, blood vessels, and nerves. This stimulating effect also benefits the immune system, which is why you’ll find it in cold and flu remedies. Many herbalists recommend drinking some cayenne (1/8 to 1 tsp.) in warm water every day or even 3 times a day, to support the circulatory system, aid in the prevention of heart attacks and strokes, improve digestion and flatulence, ward off colds and flu, help with arthritis, decrease depression and ameliorate headaches. That’s why it is considered a “general tonic.” It’s good for just about anything!

Cayenne is also popular now as a weight loss tool. It is believed to increase one’s metabolism. Warning: when you swallow cayenne pills, you will not feel the heat going down. However, you WILL feel the heat coming out. Don’t say I didn’t warn you! 🙂

If you suffer from cold hands and feet due to poor circulation, and want to harm those toes, you can add cayenne to your food and even beverages. See my recipe for Hot and Sour Orange Smoothie and have some cayenne for breakfast!

Cayenne is also used as a paste or tincture to apply to wounds, as well as sore muscles and joints. Many studies show that cayenne’s active ingredient, capsaicin, reduces pain. It relieves inflammation, increases circulation and is an antimicrobial herb. Look for it in many pain relief ointments. Here’s one you might want to check out: Khalili Cream.

Warm up today with a dash of cayenne!

Copyright © by Bobbi Mullins, originally published January 27, 2014

References:

Hoffman, D. (1993). An Elder’s Herbal. Vermont: Healing Arts Press
Tierra, M. (1998). The Way of Herbs. New York: Pocket Books
Williams, J. (2003). Jude’s Herbal Home Remedies. Minnesota: Llewellyn Press

Featured image of cayenne peppers by Jill Wellington @pixabay.com.