The hot and fiery cayenne pepper is said to have originated in Cayenne, French Guiana, and since a physician traveling with Columbus began describing them to others, their popularity as a food enhancer, pain killer and digestive aid has grown throughout the world.

Cayenne is perhaps best known for the delicious, fiery taste that it lends to Asian, Indian, Mexican and Cajun foods. It is closely related to the sweet bell pepper and to the hot peppers used to make chili powder and a variety of hot sauces. The main ingredient that gives the cayenne its fiery heat is capsaicin, an oily, irritating substance that is also used as the main component in the pepper spray used by the police to subdue overly aggressive suspects.

Image via Wikipedia

What Cayenne Does

Capsaicin is an effective pain killer when applied to the skin. It causes a depletion of a component that is found in nerve cells called substance P, that transmits pain impulses to the brain. When taken internally in supplement form, it is believed to help with digestion.

Regular application of creams or ointments that contain capsaicin can be very effective in relieving arthritis pain. It can also help to ease painful nerve damage caused by diabetes and from surgeries such as a mastectomy or amputation.

Studies show that cayenne creams may have many other uses as well. It can reduce the itching associated with psoriasis, because the itching follows the same nerve pathways as pain. The creams are also said to give some relief to the aches and pains associated with fibromyalgia and the coldness in the extremities that is caused by Raynaud`s disease.

Fresh peppers, tinctures, capsules and tablets and teas are all said to stimulate digestion and help to ease gas and ulcers. Liquids containing capsaicin cal be mixed with water and used as a gargle to sooth sore or irritated throat.

How to Use It

Many doctors frequently write prescriptions for creams that contain cayenne, but creams that contain the same potentcies ( 0.025% – 0.075%) are readily available over the counter.Sensitivity to cayenne varies from person to person, so it is important to try it on a small part of the painful spot . If it does not create discomfort, then it can be applied to the entire area.

Cayenne creams and ointments are most effective with regular daily use. Apply a thin layer to skin on the painful area and rub in well 3-4 times daily. Be sure to wash hands thoroughly after applying to avoid getting it in the eyes.

As a digestive aid, cayenne can be taken internally with or without food. There have been no adverse effects reported by pregnant or breast feeding women taking cayenne internally, but if a nursing baby becomes irritable, the mother should discontinue use.

Possible Side Effects

  • When taking cayenne internally, there is the possibility of diarrhea, stomach pain or a burning sensation during bowel movements. 
  • Cayenne creams can a mildly uncomfortable burning sensation for the first half hour or so after the first application, but this generally disappears after a couple of days of regular use.

* When taking cayenne internally always be sure to follow package directions.


Filed under: Fitness

Like this post? Subscribe to my RSS feed and get loads more!