|
Cayenne (Capsicum)
Cayenne refers to a plant that is part of the pepper family which is native
to South America. Its scientific name is Capsicum fructescens but it is also
known as: African pepper, American pepper, Bird pepper, Capsicum, Chili pepper,
Cockspur pepper, Goat’s pepper, Goat’s pod, Grains of paradise, Mexican chillies,
Paprika, Pod pepper, Red pepper, Spanish pepper, Sweet pepper, Tabasco pepper,
and Zanzibar pepper. Historically used as an herbal medical treatment for centuries,
cayenne has been used to treat disease of the circulatory system and to treat
various gastrointestinal conditions.
Although the cayenne plant is originally from South America, it is now grown
throughout the world as both a food and as a medicine. Within its native tropical
habitat, cayenne grows perennially. However, in other settings, it is cultivated
annually. The plant grows to a height of at least three feet with stems that
are woody at the bottom but branched near the top. Cayenne leaves are generally
ovate and it flowers range in color from white to yellow. The flowers usually
appear between April and September and may grow alone, in pairs, or in threes.
The cayenne fruit appears in various shades of yellow or red and is a many seeded
pod with a leathery outside.
The medical components of cayenne are contained within the fruit and include:
antioxidants such as Vitamin A and Vitamin C; potassium; and capsaicin. Capsaicin
is a resinous and pungent substance that acts on the sensory nerves as a way
to relieve pain and itching. By stimulating the temporary release of neurotransmitters
from the sensory nerves, pain signals cannot be sent for a temporary period
of time. Cayenne has been used in a variety of medical treatments, however,
it must be emphasized that it is not meant to be a replacement to prescribed
medical treatment. Cayenne has been used to in the treatment of asthma, bursitis,
diabetic neuropathy, digestive disturbances, fever, heart disease, osteoarthritis,
poor circulation, psoriasis, rheumatoid arthritis, shingles, sore throats, respiratory
tract infections, and toothaches.
Cayenne can be used through oral ingestion or through topical application.
If used in a cream, the cayenne content is usually 0.025-0.075%. The cream should
never be applied to areas of broken skin, genitals, or mucus membranes. If used
in a tincture, the recommended dosage is 0.3 ml to 1 ml, three times per day.
If used in an infusion, it is recommended that ½ to 1 teaspoon be taken per
day. If used in a powder form, it is recommended that 3 to 10 grains be taken
to treat acute conditions and 1 to 3 grains be taken to treat chronic conditions.
Individuals that have ulcers, heartburn, or gastritis should exorcise caution
when using cayenne as its use can worsen their condition. Additionally, individuals
afflicted with irritable bowl syndrome (IBS) should never use cayenne as it
can exacerbate the symptoms of IBS. Excessive oral digestion of cayenne can
cause ulcers, but this is very rare. When applied as a cream, cayenne can induce
allergic reactions. Prolonged use of cayenne containing creams can cause dermatitis
and raise blisters.
|
