By Margo Graf

Cayenne Pepper (Capsicum minimum), also known as the Guinea spice, cow-horn pepper, red hot chili pepper, and bird pepper, was brought to Britain in the late 1500’s as a condiment from India. Pungent and hot on the taste buds, it is no surprise its Greek name Capsicum translates as “to bite.” Although the pepper brings a spicy kick to our lips, it is very gentle and benevolent within our bodies.

The pepper is high in vitamins A, B, C, E, but because it is consumed in such small quantities, most of those nutrients have little effect. However, it is known and praised for its internal stimulant properties, its reliable restorative agents, and its ability to establish a harmonious balance in the body. Cayenne is hailed as one of the “do it all” herbs. Here is how to get the most out of this super pepper:

Drinks:

Cayenne activates and increases the power of other ingredients when simply sprinkling in a beverage or meal. A foolproof morning drink consists of a glass of water, fresh lemon juice, and dash of cayenne. Taken right after rising, this drink awakens and hydrates the body. Cayenne kick starts digestion when taken with meals while also arousing all the secreting organs.

To get a boost in vigor and alertness, mix cayenne with grape juice for a great energizing drink. Skip the sugar-loaded and antsy effects of Red Bulls and salted caramel lattes. Instead, opt to take the more natural route. Known to increase concentration, the grape/cayenne concoction can be an effective substitute for students during exam time or when mental clarity is needed.

In order to subdue flatulence or encourage a sluggish digestion to get to work, add some cayenne to hot herbal teas. A few grains is all that is needed. Peppermint, chamomile, and linden pair the best with the pepper as a digestive aid. However, adding cayenne to any herbal tea will still yield a tonic effect. The kidneys too will benefit and perform more efficiently. Cayenne can regulate bleeding both internally and externally, and when added with a cinnamon tea it can ease and lighten a menstrual flow.

The herb has been revered as a fever cure by many Native American and African tribes. Just by adding a pinch of the pepper to a tea (especially peppermint, elder blossoms, boneset, yarrow, or balm), it induces perspiration which eliminates bodily toxins and bacteria. In with the pepper tea, out with the flu!

For a natural anti-flu recipe, grind 2 teaspoons of cayenne pepper and 1 1/2 teaspoons of sea salt to form a paste. Add 1 cup of boiling water and let cool. Then add 1 cup apple cider vinegar. It will have a strong taste so dilute if necessary. Adults should take 1 teaspoon to 1 tablespoon every thirty minutes.

Healing:

As mentioned earlier, cayenne’s styptic properties can control bleeding both internally and externally. Early American settlers would put small amounts of cayenne in hot water to hinder internal bleeding. When no medical help is available, drinking cayenne and hot water can be vital to one’s health. Also, when applied in powder form to a cut, cayenne will stop the flow of blood. A few grains rubbed around sore teeth and gums can temporarily relieve pain while awaiting the dentist’s chair.

Cooking:

Cayenne is great in a plethora of dishes and can be used fresh, dried, or powdered. Many times you can add it to a food and still avoid a spicy taste if necessary. Here are a few examples of foods that pair well with the pepper: soups such as Thai coconut or chicken tortilla; coffee (sprinkled in coffee grounds), hot chocolate or in tea; mac and cheese, hummus, dips, salsas, and heavy sauces (barbecue). The flavor and intensity all depend on quantity. A pinch of powdered cayenne will go unnoticed in most of the foods and will help in balancing the body. A teaspoon, however, will create a sweat and have one’s metabolism moving.

There are several ways to detox the body. One of the quickest and most effective means is through perspiration. Using the skins abilities to eliminate stored toxins through sweat–eat some hot peppers, drink a tea, have a sauna, etc. Another way is flushing the system with lots of water and cleansing herbal teas. Laxatives also revitalize the entire system, just not quite as peacefully as the teas. Each specific health concern determines which procedure to use, but if serious ailments occur, always seek a medical professional.

Cayenne is a powerful stimulant that produces a warm sensation in the stomach and a lightness over the body without any narcotic effects. It is a tonic, a restorative, a preventative, an energizer, a healer, a digestive aid, and a way to spice up a meal. Although the chilies are mostly perennial in subtropical and tropical regions, North Carolina’s temperature and soil can easily produce a nice harvest. They like the warmth, so plant after the last frost with moist, nutrient-rich soil. Whether you drink it, eat it, or apply it, enjoy the balancing and rejuvenating effects of nature’s super pepper.