Cayenne (Capsicum annuum)

GENERAL DESCRIPTION:

The hot fruit of the cayenne plant has been used as medicine for centuries. Cayenne was frequently used to treat diseases of the circulatory system and is still traditionally used in herbal medicine as a circulatory tonic. The active ingredient in cayenne is a pungent substance known as capsaicin. Capsaicin appears to alter the action of the bodily compound (called "substance P") that transfers pain messages to the brain, reducing pain and inflammation by short-circuiting the pain message.

Capsaicin is used in many over-the-counter and prescription creams for the treatment of arthritis, shingles (herpes zoster), post-operative pain, cluster headaches, psoriasis and other  skin conditions. Some studies have also suggested that capsaicin may protect against the damage aspirin can cause to the stomach. Beyond this, a recent study found that cayenne has antimicrobial effects, meaning it could be used to fight infection. When taken orally, cayenne stimulates circulation, aids digestion, and promotes sweating. Because perspiration works to cool the body cayenne is sometimes used to break a fever. There is also evidence to suggest that cayenne may be useful in the treatment of obesity. Results of one trial showed that consumption of 10g of cayenne pepper with meals helped to reduce appetite, while results of another revealed that cayenne increases the metabolism of dietary fats.

Cayenne is also sold in capsules, concentrated drops and tinctures, which are taken orally. Popular products are standardized for 5 to 10 percent capsaicin. An average dose of an oral extract standardized for eight percent capsaicin is 100mg.

MAXIMUM SAFE LEVEL: Not established

Cayenne is potent and can cause serious tissue irritation if used improperly. Be sure to wash your hands thoroughly after using capsaicin- containing creams; avoid any contact with  eyes, mucous membranes, or open wounds. Excessive ingestion may cause gastroenteritis, liver, or kidney damage. Cayenne is reported to possibly interfere with MAO inhibitors and antihypertensive therapy, and may increase hepatic metabolism of drugs. Follow label directions carefully and do not exceed the recommended doses.

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