Who would have thought that blistering hot Texas chili was good for your heart or that cayenne pepper used to make hot wings could soothe your arthritis? The active ingredient in hot chilies is known as capsaicin, which has been shown to lower cholesterol levels, clear the arteries of plaque, increase metabolic activity to help with weight loss, clear the sinuses and numb skin for use as a local anesthetic. Its healing benefits abound, and it can be used in variety of other healing preparations to cure what ails you.
Step 1
Apply the topical cream called Capsaicin, available from pharmacies, to your feet for relief of burning pains, gouty inflammation, rheumatoid arthritis swellings and diabetic peripheral neuropathies. The cream's base is made from the oils of the hot chili pepper and has been touted as an excellent treatment for reducing the pain, according to HealthandAge.com. The cream may cause a burning sensation at first, but over time and with repeated use, it reduces pain by binding to the pain receptors preventing nerves from sending pain impulses to the brain.
Step 2
Mix together 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar, 1/8 tsp. cayenne pepper and 1/2 cup water, says Jethro Kloss, in his herbal manual, "Back to Eden," for another topical treatment for swollen joints, neuropathy pains or sore muscles. Apply the mixture to the painful spot with cotton, or soak a cloth in the mix and apply as a poultice. In the case of muscle pain, you can massage it gently into the tissue. Use as needed.
Step 3
Make a gargle for sore throats by mixing 1/8 tsp. cayenne pepper and warm water, suggests the Earth Clinic website. Cayenne works well to soothe sore throats, but its action is not always effective immediately. Gargle several times a day until you find relief.
Step 4
Use cayenne pepper in a homemade cough remedy. In her book "Herbally Yours," Penny C. Royal recommends combining 1/4 tsp. each of cayenne pepper and powdered ginger with 2 tbsp. water, 1 tbsp. raw honey and 1 tbsp. apple cider vinegar. Take 1 to 3 tsp. for a cough as needed.
Step 5
Relieve a head cold with tightness and congestion in the chest by mixing a capsaicin drink recommended by holistic doctor Andrew Weil. Boil 2 cups water and a 1-inch piece of fresh ginger root, grated. Turn down the temperature to allow the mixture to simmer for five minutes. Add 1/2 tsp. cayenne pepper and simmer for another minute or two. Allow the liquid to cool for five minutes. Add a clove of garlic (mashed), 2 tbsp. lemon juice and raw honey to sweeten. Consider adding 1 oz. of brandy or rum to make a hot toddy that also will help you relax. (Do not use alcohol in a treatment for children). Cool the mixture and strain the pulp. Drink periodically throughout the day to clear the chest.
Tips and Warnings
- Go slowly when using hot red peppers for any healing preparation. Make sure you are able to tolerate it by using small amounts initially.
- Wash your hands after handling any pepper products, and keep them away from your eyes. The information offered here is for educational purposes and is not meant to replace medical advice.
Things You'll Need
- Capsaicin cream
- Cayenne pepper
- Apple cider vinegar
- Powdered ginger
- Raw honey
- Fresh ginger root
- Garlic
- Lemon juice
References
- "Natural Health, Natural Medicine;" Andrew Weil, M.D.; 1998
- "Herbally Yours;" Penny C. Royal; 1982
- HealthandAge.com: Capsaicin Cream for Painful Conditions
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