Cayenne Pepper is widely known for its value as a culinary ingredient but its attributes are much more impressive than its value in the kitchen. For thousands of years, Cayenne Pepper has also been used extensively as a medicinal herb.
Cayenne Pepper, a member of the Capsicum Family with the botanical name of Capsicum Annum, is more widely known as a Chile Pepper. It received its everyday name of Cayenne Pepper because the peppers were cultivated near a town named Cayenne in French Guiana where it is believed to have originated. Cayenne Pepper has been grown in the tropical climate of South and Central America and The West Indies for over 7,000 years. It was first introduced to Europe in the 15th century by Christopher Columbus.
Once the peppers are harvested, they are dried and ground into the Cayenne Pepper that we are all accustomed to using in our daily cooking. Cayenne Pepper has a rather deceptive mild aroma, but make no mistake – its taste is spicy, hot, pungent and it adds complexity to every dish it graces! Since there are many varieties of peppers, the heat of the Cayenne Pepper depends upon the particular type of peppers that are used.
The health benefits of Cayenne Pepper are numerous and comprehensive causing some to consider it a “Miracle Herb”. Cayenne Pepper has very high capsaicin content and is rich in Vitamins A, B & C in addition to possessing calcium, potassium and other minerals.
Cayenne Pepper has cardiovascular benefits because it may help to regulate blood flow and lower high blood pressure. It may also reduce cholesterol levels, triglycerides and platelet aggregating clots.
Like all Chile Peppers, Cayenne Pepper’s capsaicin acts as an anti-inflammatory agent helping to reduce pain associated with arthritis and nerve disorders. The application of topical capsaicin is known to result in the relief of pain caused by headaches and arthritis.
Cayenne Pepper aids in the proper function of the intestinal tract, stimulates appetite and digestion. It is actually believed to help prevent stomach ulcers despite the popular misconception that it may cause them because of its heat!
Cayenne Pepper also reduces congestion caused by colds and flu by stimulating secretions that break up mucus in the nose and lungs.
Here’s to great cooking and wonderful health! Check out our Blog Posts for Cayenne Pepper & Bourbon Burgers and Awesome Asparagus! Enjoy!
