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cayenne pepper

Scientific Name: Capsicum annuum var. 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, known for its intense heat, is more than just a culinary ingredient. It boasts a long history of use in both food and medicine, dating back approximately 9,000 years.

Considerations for Pets

  • Cayenne pepper is described as extremely hot to the touch and is the main ingredient in pepper spray, which is used for self-defense.

Scientific Name and Common Names

  • Scientific Name: Capsicum annuum, Capsicum frutescens (mentioned but not definitively confirmed as the exclusive scientific name)
  • Common Names: Cayenne pepper, Guinea spice, cow-horn pepper, red hot chili pepper, aleva, bird pepper, red pepper, paprika (sometimes)

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

  • Family: Capsicum family
  • Also referred to as Capsicum

Distribution and Habitat

  • A staple in Southwestern American and Mexican cuisine.
  • Originally cultivated internationally.
  • Produce of more than one country, packed in the U.K. (specific brand mentioned).

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

  • Cayenne chilli peppers can grow up to 30cm/12in long.
  • Generally sold dried.
  • When dried, the seeds and pod are dried and ground to make cayenne pepper.

Traditional Uses and Health Benefits

  • Used for both food and medicine for the last 9,000 years by Native Americans.
  • Contains compounds such as capsaicin, vitamin-C, vitamin-A, and flavonoid anti-oxidants.
  • Used as a natural fat burner and pain killer with anti-inflammatory properties.
  • Used to heal ulcers.
  • Used in herbal remedies for sore throats, high blood pressure, circulatory problems, arthritis, varicose veins, weight loss, and bleeding wounds.

Interactions with Other Organisms

  • Used in combination with Lobelia Seed Pod to make a potent tincture.

Quirky Facts

  • Cayenne pepper is described as the "Shakira of spices: bold, beautiful, and smokin' hot (not to mention an international sensation)."
  • It is so hot that pepper spray is made with cayenne pepper and is an effective method to fend-off attackers.

Culinary Uses

  • Adds spice to meals.
  • Used in hot sauces, soups, and sauces.
  • Used to make cayenne pepper.
  • Can be used to add color to cooking.