Plant Profile: Cayenne

Cayenne

(Capsicum frutescens, C. annuum, C. minimum & related species)

Family: SOLANACEAE (Nightshade)  

Energetics: Hot, 

Taste: 

Tissue States: 

Parts Used: Fruit 

Systems affected:  Circulatory system. Heart. Digestive system. 

Key Components: Capsaicin, carotenoids, Vitamin A, C & K flavonoids, steroidal saponins, Volatile oils, 

Preparations & dosage: Infusion: Steep 1/2 to 1 tsp for 10 minutes. Mix only 1 table spoon of this infusion into hot water or tea. Tincture: Dosage: 1/4 to 1 ml. 

Actions:

Foundational: Astringent. Stimulant.
Primary: Sialagogue. Carminative. Circulatory stimulant. 
Secondary: Tonic. Antiseptic. Antispasmodic. Heart tonic. Rubefacient.

Uses: Improve poor circulation & slugging bowels. Capsaicin stimulates the release of both saliva & stomach enzymes as well as signals the brain to release endorphins. Endorphins are the bodies hormones that give one a good feeling. Low vitality. Will stop bleeding almost immediately but when applied externally will STING. Constipation. The capsaicin in cayenne is also what makes it an effective pain reliever for arthritis, bursitis and other muscle and joint pain when applied topically. Rich in Vitamins A & C that can support of the immune system. That combined with it stimulating and astringent properties make it effective for colds and flus with damp, cold congestion. A good heart tonic as it improves blood circulation to the heart and increases overall body warmth & energy. Strengthens the heart as well as the entire circulatory system including the arteries, capillaries and nerves. Regulates blood flow & strengthens heart, arteries, capillaries and nerves. Suitable for those with high OR low blood pressure. Studies show it lowers cholesterol & may help reduce severity of heart disease. Treating debility & warding off colds. Insufficient peripheral circulation resulting in colds hands and feet. When a bit of cayenne is made as a poultice with plantain it can draw out any foreign object imbedded in the flesh. 

Combine with myrrh as a gargle for laryngitis. Use tincture diluted in water for this. 

The capsaicin in cayenne is also what makes it an effective pain reliever for arthritis, bursitis and other muscle and joint pain when applied topically. 

Growing: Perennial. Grows best in a climate with a long growing season but can thrive even in the North! 

Collection: 

Contraindications: Compounds in the Chile can burn the skin of those with sensitive skin. DO NOT touch your eyes after handling. Can cause stomach convulsions if taken in large amounts. As with other members of the nightshade family, leaves, flowers & stems can be toxic. 

Sources:

The Way of Herbs: Michael Tierra. Pg 74-75
Rosemary Gladstar's Medicinal Herbs: Rosemary Gladstar. Pg 60-63
The Complete Herbs Sourcebook: David Hoffman. Pg 237