Cayenne is a medicinal and nutritional herb that has been used as medicine for centuries. First used by the Native Americans, it is now an important part of traditional Chinese medicine and Ayurveda. It brings benefits for the digestive and circulatory system, as well as the heart. It is a high source of Vitamins A and C, and B complexes. It is rich in organic calcium and potassium, making it a good herb to take for the heart.
Capsaicin is the active ingredient in cayenne pepper, and is responsible for its many benefits. It helps relieve pain, both when applied topically and taken orally, and can help reduce blood platelet thickness. Capsaicin causes saliva and stomach secretions to increase, resulting in better digestion. Capsaicin also enables the body to release additional neurotransmitters that inhibit pain nerves temporarily.
Cayenne does wonders for the digestive system because it can help rebuild the tissue in the stomach. It helps in elimination and assimilation, and in the creation of hydrochloric acid for digestion and assimilation. This herb also boosts circulation and increases heart action, while lowering blood pressure. As it has an energizing effect on the body, it has been traditionally used to overcome fatigue.
Cayenne can be used in a number of ways, most notably cayenne creams applied externally. Rubbed on the skin, cayenne is a good remedy for rheumatic pains and arthritis, and can improve itching and psoriasis. Those with a heart condition may drink cayenne tea. When taken orally, cayenne helps to improve blood circulation. Research indicates that cayenne may also be quite useful when used in connection with migraines. For migraines, cayenne is applied as an ointment to the inside of the nostrils; however, this can cause severe discomfort for some people.