Hot and spicy cayenne pepper. Who hasn’t had the culinary experience of this beautifully colored pepper’s fiery heat either on purpose or by accident? And because it’s available year round, cayenne peppers are used by many chefs all around the word to space up their delicious recipes.
Cayenne pepper is actually a member of the Capsicum family of vegetables, which are commonly known as chili peppers. The botanical name is Capsicum annuum. According to internet sources, the name “cayenne” was given to this pepper because of its cultivation in a town that bears the same name in French Guiana.
The hotness produced by cayenne pepper is caused by its high concentration of a substance called capsaicin. Technically referred to as 8-methyul-N-vanillyl-6-nonenamide, capsaicin has been widely studied for its pain-reducing effects, its cardiovascular benefits, and its ability to help prevent ulcers. Capsaicin also effectively opens and drains congested nasal passages. In addition to their high capsaicin content, cayenne peppers are also an excellent source of vitamin A.(1)
According to Dr. John Christopher, pioneer of herbal medicine, “In 35 years of practice, and working with the people and teaching, I have never on house calls lost one heart attack patient and the reason is, whenever I go in–if they are still breathing–I pour down them a cup of cayenne tea (a teaspoon of cayenne in a cup of hot water), and within minutes they are up and around.”
“If you master only one herb in your life, master cayenne pepper.
It is more powerful than any other.”Dr. Richard Schulze, medical herbalist and Naturopath
27 Health Benefits of Cayenne Pepper
- anti-inflammatory
- ability to ease upset stomach
- eases sore throats & irritating coughs
- stimulates digestive tract
- helps produce saliva
- helps with psoriasis
- helps with detoxification
- helps body dissolve fibrin
- relieves joint pain
- supports healthy weight loss
- anti-cold and flu properties
- boosts immune system
- may help prevent frostbite
- may ease diarrhea
- anti-fungal properties
- breaks up mucus & clears congestion
- helps with migraines & osteoarthritis pain
- excellent source of Vitamin A
- aids in metabolizing food
- anti-allergen
- stimulates intestinal peristaltic motion
- helps reduce atherosclerosis
- circulatory stimulant
- anti-bacterial properties
- topical remedy
- helps with blood pressure
- provides toothache relief
Bonus: Detoxification Support of Cayenne Pepper
Known as an excellent circulatory stimulant, cayenne pepper actually augments the pulse of both your lymphatic and digestive rhythms. The body’s natural detoxification process is made more efficient by heating the body. Cayenne pepper’s ability to induce sweating is notable because it’s another important part of detoxification. When blended with lemon juice, maple syrup and fresh ginger, the Lemon-Ginger-Cayenne Toxin Removal Tea (recipe below) is an excellent morning beverage for total body detox.
Lemon-Ginger-Cayenne Toxin Removal Tea
Ingredients
juice of half an organic lemon
2 tablespoon grade B Maple Syrup
1/8 teaspoon cayenne
1 tablespoon fresh ginger (optional)
10 ounces purified water
Instructions
Boil water.
Peel & chop ginger into fine pieces.
Add lemon, honey, cayenne & ginger in a mug.
Top with boiling water & let steep for five to ten minutes, until ginger is strong & aromatic. Can also be poured over ice. Enjoy!
REFERENCES AND RESEARCH
Cayenne Pepper – http://www.whfoods.com
The Complete Writings Of Dr. John Christopher, N.D., M.H. C.D. Rom
Jolayemi, A.T., and JAO Ojewole. “Comparative Anti-Inflammatory Properties of Capsaicin and Ethyl-aAcetate Extract of Capsicum Frutescens Linn [Solanaceae] in Rats.” African Health Sciences 13.2 (2013): 357–361. PMC. Web.
Wongvibulsin, Shannon. “A Guide to Natural Ways to Alleviate Allergy and Sinusitis Symptoms.” Explore Integrative Medicine, UCLA Health, 2014.
Renault, S., et al. “CAY-1, a Novel Antifungal Compound from Cayenne Pepper.” Medical Mycology., vol. 41, no. 1, 12 Mar. 2003, pp. 75–81.
Presser, Art. “Smart Supplementation – Cayenne.” Huntington College of Health Sciences, 2009.
“Spices Exotic Flavors & Medicines Chile Pepper.” History & Special Collections UCLA Louise M. Darling Biomedical Library, 2002.
“Cayenne.” University of Utah Health Library, University of Utah, 2017.
Ehrlich, Stephen. “Cayenne.” University of Maryland Medical Center, University of Maryland, 22 June 2015.
Wahba, N.M., et al. “Antimicrobial Effects of Pepper, Parsley, and Dill and Their Roles in the Microbiological Quality Enhancement of Traditional Egyptian Kareish Cheese.” Foodborne Pathogens and Disease., vol. 7, no. 4, 19 Nov. 2009, pp. 411–8.
Omolo, Morrine A., et al. “Antimicrobial Properties of Chili Peppers.” Journal of Infectious Diseases and Therapy, vol. 02, no. 04, 2014.
“Frequent Spicy Food Consumption Linked with Longer Life.” Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, The President and Fellows of Harvard College, 5 Aug. 2015.
†Results may vary. Information and statements made are for education purposes and are not intended to replace the advice of your doctor. Oasis Advanced Wellness/OAWHealth does not dispense medical advice, prescribe, or diagnose illness. The views and nutritional advice expressed by Oasis Advanced Wellness/OAWHealth are not intended to be a substitute for conventional medical service. If you have a severe medical condition or health concern, see your physician of choice.
Loretta Lanphier, NP
Loretta Lanphier is a Traditional Naturopathic Practitioner, Certified Clinical Nutritionist, Holistic Health Practitioner, and Certified Clinical Herbalist. She is the CEO and Founder of Oasis Advanced Wellness in The Woodlands, Texas.
With more than 25 years of experience in natural health and wellness, Loretta has devoted her career to studying and researching natural medicine, whole-body wellness, hormone wellness, healthy aging, clinical nutrition, weight management, herbal remedies, and non-toxic approaches to cancer support. She remains actively involved in researching and developing natural health protocols, educational resources, and products designed to support the body’s remarkable ability to heal and maintain optimal health.
A Stage 3 colon cancer survivor since 2001, Loretta brings a unique and deeply personal perspective to her work. Having experienced the healing journey from both sides, as a patient and a practitioner, she understands the importance of addressing the whole person and root causes rather than focusing solely on individual health concerns and symptoms. Her personal experience continues to inspire her passion for educating and empowering others to take an active role in their health and well-being.
My passion has always been helping others understand what it takes to keep the whole body healthy through natural, non-toxic approaches that support the body’s God-given ability to heal.
Loretta also serves as Chief Wellness Officer for Dr. Edward Group, DC, contributing to natural health education, wellness program development, and research.
Read Loretta’s personal cancer journey: Cancer: The Path to Healing. Loretta is a Contributor and Editor of the worldwide E-newsletter Advanced Health & Wellness.
