Cayenne is an anti-inflammatory and anti-irritant. It relieves pain, has antimicrobial effects, and may even have an anticancer effect. It can ease aspirin-induced upset stomach, and is a digestive aid. It seems to be a detoxifying agent and specifically protects the stomach. It also may help blood clot more effectively. Today, we’re going to learn a little bit more about Cayenne, and how to use it for our benefit.

In folk medicine, cayenne has been used for painful muscle spasms, frostbite, and as a gargle for hoarseness and sore throats. It also was used for preventing seasickness, heart disease, and stroke. 

In Ayurvedic medicine, cayenne is used for gout, arthritis, sciatica, coughs, and hoarseness. It can lower a fever associated with malaria, yellow fever, and scarlet fever. It is also used for cholera and edema. When combined with ginger and rhubarb, it can treat anorexia nervosa. As a homeopathic remedy, cayenne is used for inflammation of the urinary tract, alimentary canal, and mouth, and for middle ear infections. 

Earlier this week in our Herbal Community, we mentioned some of its constituents, but the one you’ll want to focus on and keep associated with this plant is: Capsaicin

Cayenne is a warming circulatory stimulant, a safe and effective tonic for the heart, and an excellent digestive aid. One of its active ingredients, capsaicin, stimulates circulation throughout the body and assists in digestion by stimulating the release of both saliva and stomach enzymes. Capsaicin also signals the brain to release endorphins, the body’s “feel-good” hormones. And capsaicin has proved so effective as a topical pain reliever for arthritis, bursitis, and muscle and joint aches that it’s the active ingredient in several over-the-counter pain-relief creams. Rich in vitamins A and C, cayenne can aid and support the immune system, which is one of the reasons it’s so useful in formulas for colds and flus. Cayenne also has a long history of use as a heart herb. 

It’s interesting that this herb is great for pain relief. If you look at the signatures of the plant, Capsaicin chemical structure looks like a nerve ending (see below). Remember, when we looking for the signatures of a plant, we’re comparing it to the body

Being great as a topical pain reliever, here is a recipe for oil using Cayenne Pepper:

This salve is excellent for soothing achy joints and creaky bones. Be careful not to touch your eyes or other “delicate parts” after using it, though, and wash your hands well.

As an oil, you keep the oil at the right temperature. Between 95° and 110°F is perfect.

ALSO: because Cayenne is influenced by the Sun, if you do decide to create this oil, let it infuse in the sunlight for 4-6 hours - this helps with healing and slightly increases its potency.

Happy Medicine Making!