Cayenne (90,000 H/U)

Botanical:  Capsicum annuum

Family:  Solanaceae (nightshade)

Other common names: Capsicum, Red Pepper, Bell Pepper, Bird Pepper, African Bird Pepper, Chili Pepper

Cayenne pepper exerts a number of beneficial effects on the cardiovascular system.  It reduces the likelihood of developing arteriosclerosis by reducing blood cholesterol and triglyceride levels.  Cayenne is also thought to reduce platelet aggregation and increases fibrinolytic activity.  It is said that cultures who consume a large amount of Cayenne pepper have a much lower rate of cardiovascular disease.

Disclaimer:
The information presented herein by Viable Herbal Solutions is intended for educational purposes only. These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA and are not intended to diagnose, cure, treat or prevent disease. Individual results may vary, and before using any supplements, it is always advisable to consult with your own health care provider.

History and Uses:
Cayenne is originally from South America, and the plant has spread across the globe both as a food and as a medicine.  It was considered helpful for various conditions of the gastrointestinal tract, including stomachaches, cramping pains and gas.  Cayenne was frequently used to treat diseases of the circulatory system and is still traditionally used in herbal medicine as a circulatory tonic (a substance believed to improve circulation). Rubbed onto the skin, Cayenne is a traditional, as well as modern, remedy for rheumatic pains and arthritis, due to what is termed a "counterirritant" effect.  A counterirritant is something that causes irritation to a tissue to which it is applied, thus distracting from the original irritation (such as joint pain in the case of arthritis).  Cayenne peppers vary greatly in the amount of heat and are actually categorized from anywhere between 0 to 300,000 scovile units. Green peppers are 0 while the hottest, such as habaneras, are 300,000.  A more modern system simply rates heat on a scale of 1 to 10.  Many people consume lots of hot peppers in tropical climates, as the heat helps tol induce perspiration, which actually helps a person to cool.  Cayenne's primary chemical constituents include capsaicin, capsanthine, beta-carotene, flavonoids and vitamin C.  Cayenne causes the brain to secrete more endorphins.  Cayenne helps to relieve pain, not only due to its endorphin enhancing properties, but also when diluted and used topically, it helps to block the transmission of substance P, which transports pain messages to the brain.   It is considered thermogenic, meaning that it can "rev up" metabolism and may aid in weight loss programs.  As a potent, hot herb, Cayenne also helps to improve circulation. 

Recommended Dosage:
Take two (2) capsules, one (1) to two (2) times each day with water at mealtimes.

Contraindications:
Avoid large doses of Cayenne (many times the recommended dosage) when pregnant and nursing, and large doses may cause stomach pain, kidney or liver problems.  In its bulk form, be sure to keep away from eyes and mucous membranes, and wash hands thoroughly after contact with any loose form of Cayenne.  Do not apply Cayenne cream to injured skin or open wounds, and if you ingest Cayenne, and it is scorching your mouth, drink milk to neutralize the heat.  Do not take Cayenne without talking to your doctor first if you are taking high blood pressure medicine; blood thinning medicines; medicine for seizures, migraine headache, sedation or muscle relaxants.   Avoid prolonged use if you have hypertension or peptic ulcers.  Asthmatics should not inhale Cayenne fumes, which can be irritating to lungs, and Cayenne may not be appropriate for people with irritable bowel syndrome or bowel inflammation.

Capsule Information:
Our Cayenne supplements are encapsulated in 100% Gluten-free, Vegetable Cellulose, Certified Kosher, size "00" Capsules. (click here for size comparison) Each capsule contains approximately 600 mg. each.