by Maddie Morgan

Created on: March 17, 2007   Last Updated: April 18, 2007

The benefits of Cayenne Pepper have been well known for thousands of years, but it hasn't been until recently that the Western world has redeemed this spicy vegetable as more than just a tongue twister. Many herbalists believe that the Cayenne Pepper is the most useful of all medicinal herbs. Not only is the Pepper naturally high in Vitamins A, C, and the B complexes, but its is also very rich in organic calcium and potassium. As an added benefit, Cayenne also acts as a catalyst when combined with other herbs, increasing their effectiveness and healing properties.

While all the benefits of the Cayenne Pepper have not been clinically proven by Western standards, there are more than a handful of ailments and illnesses that are thought to be healed, if not benefited from its consumption.

1.Improves Circulation
2.Reduces Declamation and may help Inflammatory Conditions
3.Purifies the Blood
4.Helps in normalizing Blood Pressure
5.Speeds up Metabolism and may aid in weight loss
6.Helps to bring down blood sugar levels
7.Lowers Cholesterol
8.Capable of stopping some types of heart attacks and angina
9.Improves indigestion, poor digestion and even some ulcers
10.Can help reduce fevers
11.Relieves symptoms of congestion and colds

Both my husband and I love spicy foods, and include both cayenne and regular crushed chili's in most of our recipes. However, many people have a hard time with the burning sensation that this vegetable produces. One of the easiest ways that I have found to take this herb is by adding 1 Tablespoon of powdered Cayenne to a glass, add two tablespoons lemon juice, and one cup warm water over top. Mix together and quickly drink. Do not let the mixture sit for long, since the longer Cayenne sits in liquid the hotter it will taste. This drink is easy to take, if done right the most you will get will be a little bite at the end, but the healing properties far out weigh a little discomfort.

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