Cayenne Pepper benefits and side effects
Cayenne [red pepper or chili pepper, Capsicum annuum, Capsicum
frutescens], closely related to bell peppers, jalapeños, paprika, and
other similar peppers, was first discovered in South America and has
become popular as food and spicy. Cayenne may have health benefits
or support on various digestive conditions including stomachaches,
cramping and gas. Cayenne has also been applied topically for pain,
psoriasis, arthritis and shingles.

Lalitha Thomas, author for '10 Essential Herbs' [second ed., Hohm
Press, 1996] states: For cayenne to be the number one healer of
bleeding ulcers in the digestive tract, cayenne must be in its dried and
uncooked form and in the proper dosage.

Nutritional Values

Cavenne pepper is a good source of manganese, dietary fibers, vitamins
A, B 6 and C. Traditional Uses of Cayenne.

Traditional Uses

Cayenne has been used for centuries as a medicinal herb to relieve
gastrointestinal disorders and other circulatory related syndromes.
Cayenne has also been considered as a first aid prior to medical
treatment for bleeding. With no scientific supports, cayenne mixed with
grape juice has been used for caffeine withdrawal symptoms.

Active Ingredients and Health Benefits; Research finds.

The active ingredient of cayenne is capsaicin; it is a resinous and
pungent substance. This is what gives cayenne the ability to relieve
pain and itching from various conditions when applied externally to the
skin. [1-13] In a study, cayenne has been shown to relieve migraines
and headaches. [14-15].

A study has demonstrated the benefits of capsaicin injection on
symptom improvement of bladder dysfunctions. [16] Two studies
suggest that large consumption of cayenne pepper may help weight
loss or even obesity prevention. [17-18].

Cayenne Side Effects, Warnings and Interactions.

Side effects are limited for external uses of cayenne cream. [20] Some
people may experience allergic reaction.

In a double-blind study of 15 subjects with heartburn, supplementation
with 833 mg of cayenne caused abdominal pain in two of them. [19]

Long-term consumption of large amounts of cayenne pepper is linked to
stomach cancer. [21]


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