SafePlants

Cayenne Pepper: A Fiery Spice with a Rich History

Cayenne pepper, known for its intense heat, is more than just a culinary ingredient. It has a long history of use in traditional medicine and boasts a variety of potential health benefits.

Common Names and Scientific Classification

• Scientific Name: Capsicum annuum (and possibly Capsicum frutescens). Note: The text mentions both annuum and frutescens but doesn't clarify which is definitively cayenne.
• Common Names: Cayenne pepper, Guinea spice, cow-horn pepper, red hot chili pepper, aleva, bird pepper, red pepper, chili pepper, capsicum, paprika

Considerations for Pets

• The text mentions that cayenne pepper is "extremely hot to the touch" and is the active ingredient in pepper spray. This suggests that ingestion or contact with sensitive areas could cause significant irritation in pets.

Considerations for Children

• The text describes cayenne pepper as "fiery, hot spice" that is "extremely hot to the touch". Therefore, it is important to keep cayenne pepper away from children.

Distribution and Habitat

• Originally cultivated, although the exact origin is not specified in detail.

Morphological Characteristics

• When dried, the seeds and pod of the pepper are ground to make cayenne pepper.
• The resulting powder is red and adds heat and color to food.
• Cayenne peppers/chiles are generally sold dried.

Traditional and Medicinal Uses

• Cayenne pepper has been used in traditional Chinese and Ayurvedic medicines.
• Native Americans have used cayenne pepper as both food and medicine for at least 9,000 years.
• It has been used to treat circulatory problems and increase appetite.
• Reported medicinal uses include remedies for sore throats, high blood pressure, arthritis, varicose veins, and bleeding wounds.
• The text mentions it is a natural remedy used for circulatory problems, arthritis, varicose veins, weight loss, sore throats, bleeding wounds and much more.

Key Compounds

• Cayenne pepper contains capsaicin, the compound responsible for its heat, as well as vitamin C, vitamin A, and flavonoid antioxidants.

Quirky Facts

• The text refers to cayenne pepper as "the Shakira of spices: bold, beautiful, and smokin' hot (not to mention an international sensation)."

Further Information

• Holland & Barrett sells cayenne pepper.
• Sainsbury's sells cayenne pepper.
• For more information on cayenne chili peppers, visit Chili Pepper Madness.
• Food Network's Food Terms Encyclopedia has information on cayenne pepper.