Digestive tract bleeding may be caused by numerous factors, notes the National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse, including peptic ulcers, esophageal varices, gastritis, esophagitis, benign tumors and cancer. Peptic ulcers -- sores in the lining of your esophagus, stomach and small intestine -- are among the most common causes of digestive tract bleeding. Before using herbs, such as cayenne, to help treat your bleeding ulcers, meet with your primary care provider to review herb-related topics.
Bleeding Ulcers
Endoscopy is the diagnostic procedure gastroenterologists use to check for bleeding ulcers, especially if medications and other treatment measures fail to stop your digestive tract bleeding. According to the University of Maryland Medical Clinic, approximately 15 percent of people with peptic ulcers experience bleeding, and about 30 percent of individuals with peptic ulcers who report to the hospital with a bleeding ulcer will require endoscopy or surgical intervention. Bleeding is one of the most common complications associated with peptic ulcers.
Plant Description
Cayenne, a shrub indigenous to certain parts of Central and South America, contains numerous active ingredients, such as capsaicin, as well as nutrients such as flavonoids, carotenoids, vitamins A, B-6, C and E, riboflavin, manganese and potassium. The plant's hollow fruit is dried and powdered and has long been used medicinally to treat various ailments. Cayenne contains significant amounts of the following phytochemicals: beta-carotene, citric acid, lutein and quercetin. Dried cayenne pepper is available in capsule form or as a cream that is used externally.
Cayenne Uses
Cayenne has many important health uses. This herb, notes certified nutritional consultant Phyllis A. Balch, author of "Prescription for Nutritional Healing," has historically been used in treating bleeding ulcers. Cayenne pepper contains a substance called capsaicin, which is known for its ability to reduce inflammation and pain. Cayenne has an effective local anesthetic effect, which helps account for its ability to relieve ulcer-related pain or discomfort. Cayenne may help prevent ulcers by killing harmful bacteria you ingest and encouraging the production of protective digestive juices in certain cells lining your stomach. Always consult your doctor before using this herb for medicinal purposes.
Additional Information
Because digestive tract bleeding can be caused by numerous factors, see your primary care provider for a full and thorough evaluation. A qualified health-care practitioner can provide you with an accurate diagnosis and an individualized treatment plan to help resolve your ailment. Herbal remedies, including cayenne, should only be used if you are under the care and guidance of a health-care professional who has advanced training in botanical medicine.
References
- National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse: Bleeding in the Digestive Tract
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Peptic Ulcer
- "Prescription for Nutritional Healing"; Phyllis A. Balch, CNC; 2010
