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cayenne pepper

Scientific Name: Capsicum annuum

Family: Solanaceae

Category: Dicot

Growth: Subshrub, Forb/herb

Duration: Annual, Perennial

Other Names:

       

Cayenne Pepper: A Fiery Spice with a Rich History

Cayenne pepper, a vibrant spice known for its heat, has a history stretching back thousands of years. From culinary applications to traditional medicinal uses, this member of the chili pepper family has earned a place in cultures around the world.

Common Names

  • Cayenne Pepper
  • Guinea spice
  • Cow-horn pepper
  • Red hot chili pepper
  • Aleva
  • Bird pepper
  • Red pepper (especially in powdered form)
  • Paprika (sometimes used)
  • Red pepper
  • Chili pepper
  • Mirchi

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

  • Genus: Capsicum
  • Species: Includes varieties of Capsicum annuum and Capsicum frutescens
  • Related: Closely related to jalapeño peppers and bell peppers

Distribution and Habitat

  • Staple in Southwestern American and Mexican cuisine.
  • Originally cultivated in locations where it became an "international sensation."

Morphological Characteristics

  • Cayenne chili peppers can grow up to 30cm/12in long.
  • Generally sold dried.
  • Ground into a red powder.
  • Orange-red to dark red color.

Traditional Uses and Health Benefits

  • Used for both food and medicine for the last 9,000 years by Native Americans.
  • Used in a number of herbal remedies from sore throats to high blood pressure.
  • Reported to stimulate the circulatory system.
  • Reported to potentially help burn calories, relieve arthritis, and more.
  • Used as a natural fat burner and pain killer with anti-inflammatory properties.
  • Contains compounds such as capsaicin, vitamin-C, vitamin-A, and flavonoid anti-oxidants.

Considerations for Pets

  • Cayenne pepper is extremely hot and is known to cause a burning sensation.

Considerations for Children

  • Cayenne pepper is extremely hot and is known to cause a burning sensation.

Interactions with Other Organisms

  • Used to make pepper spray as a method to fend-off attackers.

Quirky Facts

  • Cayenne pepper is sometimes referred to as the "Shakira of spices" due to being bold, beautiful, and smokin' hot.
  • Used in a potent Tincture with Lobelia Seed Pod - which takes 3 months to make!

Further Information

  • Learn more about the cayenne chili pepper from Chili Pepper Madness.
  • Food Network's Food Terms Encyclopedia.
  • Holland & Barrett.
  • Global Healing Center.