Improve your circulation: Cayenne pepper
t is possible to improve your
blood flow with cayenne pepper.
John Heinerman, in his book
entitled, "The Health Benefits of Cayenne", describes how cayenne
pepper can improve your circulation and thus, your health. (1)
Cayenne pepper, (capsicum
frutescens) is the Aztec word for cayenne. It is an herb made from dried pods
of red, hot, chili peppers. This is a spice that has been used all around the
world, for many centuries. (2)
Anyone who has tried to
taste a red, chili pepper knows that it is really hot! Even touching your skin
with it can be extremely painful. It is the capsaicin in the cayenne pepper that gives chili peppers their heat.
Medicinally, capsaicin works as
a blood circulation stimulator. When the circulation is stimulated the blood
breaks through blockages and reduces platelet stickiness. The capsaicin content
varies from 0-1.5% and the higher capsaicin levels are found in the really hot
peppers. Like many other plants, there can be different varieties of hot
peppers with varying degrees of heat. The heat in hot peppers is measured in
units, ie. 40,000, 60,000 or 90,000 units. For medicinal purposes it is
suggested that peppers with 30,000 units should not be used, as they may be
contaminated. (3)
Cayenne pepper contains vitamin
C, Vitamin E and carotenoids. It is recommended for use in heart disease,
chronic pain, toothaches, flatulence, headaches and sore throats. With respect
to digestive disorders, it is soothing to the digestive tract. Cayenne pepper
begins working in the mouth by direct stimulation of the nerve endings on the
tongue. This triggers a reaction throughout the rest of the body increasing the
blood flow immediately, to areas where there is a blockage. It stimulates the
saliva flow aiding in digestion.
With respect to treatment with
cayenne pepper, it is suggested that capsicum powder is preferable to capsules.
The initial dosage recommended is one sixteenth of a teaspoon, mixed in juice.
Caution must be
taken with respect to any kind of administration of cayenne
peppers. (4)
Cayenne pepper is grown in many
countries of the world, including North America, China ,
India , Mexico and East Africa .
(5)
With regard to further
benefits, because it contains the B complex vitamins, as well as potassium and
calcium, it is considered to be beneficial for the heart. It warms the blood
and as the blood circulates throughout the body, it stimulates other body
systems. It can be used to treat cold hands and feet. It helps to
relieve joint pain, as the increased circulation acts to breaks up calcium
deposits in the joints. It will help to relieve joint and muscle pain and
rheumatoid arthritis discomfort. (6)
Cayenne pepper will clear sinus
congestion, as well as bleeding gums. Interestingly, it is used to stop bleeding
and reduce swelling. It has been used for physical and emotional trauma, with excellent results. (7)
While it is suggested that all
of the above usages of cayenne pepper are considered beneficial, one must also
be cautioned that cayenne pepper is extremely hot. It can cause severe
irritation of the mucous membranes, eyes and skin.
Safety precautions should
always be taken with respect to young children. Do not allow them to touch or
taste hot chili peppers, at any time
Note that taking cayenne pepper can
improve your health, but as a precautionary measure, it is advisable to consult
a physician for advice regarding any serious health issues.
(2) Ibid.
(3) Ibid.
(4)
http://www.getnutri.com/cayenne.html
(5) Ibid.
(6) Ibid.
(7) Ibid.
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