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All articles are commissioned by and represent the sole copyright of, The Health Network Company (NZ) Ltd. Reproduction, duplication and/or transfer by any means electronic or otherwise is strictly prohibited. Breach of copyright will be pursued to the full extent of any applicable laws. Disclaimer If you are concerned about your health or treatment, always see your own doctor.
These health guides are no substitute for proper diagnosis and treatment from your own health professional.
Cayenne
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Capsicum frutescens, C.annuum
Capsaicin is the constituent found in cayenne, that is responsible for the powerful pain-relieving action of cayenne. It works by depleting substance P (the principle neurotransmitter for pain impulses and inflammation) in peripheral nerves. When extracted from cayenne and purified, it is white to off white in colour instead of the colour of cayenne.
There are different types of cayenne pepper and each variety has different Heat Units(HU) rating, ranging from Bell pepper with 0 heat to Habanero with 100,000 to 300,000 heat units. The heat rating does not change regardless of the amount or number of capsules taken .
Cayenne can assist digestion by stimulating the flow of both saliva and stomach secretion. Cayenne helps to re-establish optimum blood flow and improve circulation to the limbs affected by frostbites and diabetes. It will warm and improve the circulation to hands and feet that are chronically affected by chilblains.
A cream made up of cayenne is used for the relief of pain in cases of osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis diabetic neuropathy, and neuralgia associated with shingles. Taken internally, it stimulates blood circulation and is good for indigestion, flatulence, increases and aids the absorption of other nutrients in the body. Cayenne is an excellent agent in the treatment of congested, ulcerated, or infectious sore throat. It is indicated in all low-grade fevers and prostrating diseases. It has the ability to increase the action of other agents, helps the digestion when taken with meals,and stimulates all the secreting organs.
Research suggests that cayenne can also help relieve cluster headaches. In one such study, people who often suffered cluster headaches, rubbed capsaicin preparation inside their nostrils and outside their noses on the same side of the head as the pain. 75% of these people reported less pain and fewer headaches within five days. Cayenne lowers cholesterol levels and that in turn reduces the risk of internal blood clots, which trigger heart attacks.
Precaution
The cream should not be applied to mucous membranes, broken skin surfaces or around the eyes.
References
- Tierra M.The Way of Herbs. New York. Pocket Books. 1990.
- Black P. The Illustrated Herbal. Hamlyn. 1987
- Boxer A, Black P.The herb Book. Reed International Books Limited. 1980.
- Burch E (N.D.).The Complete Herbal Companion.Harper Collins 2000
- L’Orang D.The Herbal Healing Secrets of the Orient.Prentice Hall 1998
- Tierra M.The ways of Chinese Herbs.Pocket Books. 1998.
- Liu HC.Chinese System of Food Cures.Pelandok Publication.1989.
- Dr.Hong YH, PhD, Hsu CS, PhD. Commonly Used Chinese Herbs.Oriental Healing Arts Institute, 1980.
- Dr.Hong YH, PhD. How to Treat Yourself with Chinese Herbs.Oriental Healing Arts Institute. 1993.
- Murray M, Pizzorno J.The Encyclopaedia of Natural Medicines. Prima Pub. 1998.
- Tierra L.The Herbs of Life.Freedom, CA. Crossing Press. 1992.
- Dr.Walker M.Olive leaf extract. Kensington books. 1997
- Kloss J, Promise M.Back to Eden, revised version. Mass Market Paperback. 1989.
- Prevention Magazine (editors).The complete book of natural & medicinal cures. Health books. Berkley Publishing Group, 1996.
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