Cayenne

We mainly think of Cayenne pepper or chilli (Capsicum minimus) as a culinary addition to provide hot, spiciness to Indian or Mexican foods. It has, However, been long recognised for its medicinal properties and was an integral part of a branch of Herbalism, Physiomedicalism, that was developed in America during the early1800’s. Cayenne has so many uses it is hard to list them all but is primarily an excellent circulatory stimulant. It will reduce both blood pressure and lower cholesterol and triglycerides, helping to reduce artherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries) and improve the health of your arteries. It will also help with cold hands and feet thus helping to prevent chilblains. It has long been used as a remedy for colds and flu, helping to resolve chills, tonsillitis, laryngitis, pneumonia and pleurisy. As a digestive aid it will ease indigestion, and help with a sluggish digestion. It helps to balance the bowel flora and can help with Candida albicans overload. I often give in capsule form together with garlic to treat or prevent food poisoning – ideal for visits to foreign lands! It contains high levels of both iron and vitamin C and so will improve anaemic conditions. You can make a warming ointment by melting in a double boiler, 16 parts vegetable oil (sunflower oil is fine) together with 2 parts beeswax. Add a pinch of cayenne powder – depending on the quantity made. This ointment is very soothing to arthritic type inflammation where it acts as an analgesic and warming anti inflammatory. The easiest way to take cayenne is to sprinkle a little on your meals each day or mix it a pinch in with hot water – the Aztecs would add chilli to hot chocolate! If larger quantities are needed I find taking it in capsules the easiest way. The hot sensation doesn’t affect the stomach. Be careful when handling chillies or cayenne pepper not to get it in your eyes and always wash your hands afterwards.
If you are taking prescribed medicines, are pregnant or breast feeding or have a serious medical condition, please seek advice from a qualified medical herbalist before taking herbal remedies.

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