Cayenne peppers are long, slender, hot peppers grown in India, Africa, South America and the Caribbean, according to Michael Castleman, author of "The Healing Herbs." These peppers are primarily used in culinary applications to add intense heat and flavor to foods. However, cayenne may also have healing properties. This pepper is available in supplement form in health food stores and some large supermarkets. Cayenne pepper supplements should not replace conventional medical treatment for any disease or condition. Check with your health-care provider before taking cayenne supplements.
Improved Circulation
According to Dr. James Balch and Phyllis Balch, authors of "Prescription for Nutritional Healing," cayenne supplements may help improve the flow of blood through the circulatory system by dilating arteries and blood vessels. It may also aid circulation by clearing out fatty deposits along arterial walls. Improved circulation enhances the delivery of nutrients to the organs, tissues and bones. It may also help prevent heart disease.
Improved Digestion
Cayenne has been used in Africa, India and the Caribbean for centuries to treat digestive problems, according to Castleman. Supplements containing this pepper may help stimulate the production of saliva and digestive acids, which break down foods and speed the digestion process.
Headache Relief
According to Castleman, capsaicin, the primary chemical compound in cayenne peppers, may help relieve pain associated with headaches. Cayenne supplements may be especially useful for cluster headaches, which are characterized by intense pain. Cluster headaches occur in time "clusters" and may stop altogether during certain times of the year, according to MayoClinic.com.
Other Benefits
Cayenne supplements may help prevent the bleeding of ulcers, according to "Prescription for Nutritional Healing." It may also boost immune system function, helping the body to ward off colds, influenza and other illnesses.
References
- "Prescription for Nutritional Healing"; James F. Balch, M.D. and Phyllis Balch, CNC.; 1997
- "The Healing Herbs"; Michael Castleman; 1991
- MayoClinic.com: Cluster Headache
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