Original post: January 16, 2026

Cayenne (Capsicum annuum) is a type of hot chili pepper in the Solanaceae family (alongside tomatoes, potatoes, and eggplants). It’s a tropical perennial shrub. The part of the plant utilized is the fruit. It is harvested when fully ripened with a crimson color and is dried in a warm, shady area for several weeks. Once dried, the fruit is typically ground into the powder that is familiar to many people. About 25% of the world’s population uses cayenne or red pepper as a culinary spice.

Key components include:

● Capsaicin – the compound responsible for the heat and most therapeutic effects.

● Carotenoids and flavonoids (antioxidants).

● Essential oil.

● Vitamin C.

Cayenne exhibits properties like anti-catarrhal (reduces mucus), anti-emetic (reduces nausea), antimicrobial, carminative (reduces gas), diaphoretic (promotes sweating), rubefacient (increases skin blood flow), sialagogue (stimulates saliva), stimulant, and tonic.

1. Digestive Support

Capsaicin stimulates digestive fluids, aiding breakdown of food and potentially soothing indigestion, gas, or nausea. Contrary to old myths, cayenne doesn’t cause ulcers – in fact, it may help prevent them by inhibiting Helicobacter pylori (the bacteria linked to most ulcers) and promoting mucus production and blood flow to the stomach lining.

2. Pain Relief (Especially Topical)

Capsaicin depletes substance P (a pain-signaling chemical), providing relief when applied topically. It is believed that the body can only pay attention to so many pain signals at once. The minor superficial pain caused by cayenne in a topical form (like incorporated into a cream) reduces the nervous systems ability to alert the brain to deeper, more severe pain. Currently, the FDA has approved capsaicin (the active ingredient in cayenne) for use in several over the counter pain-relieving creams. FDA-approved capsaicin creams are used for conditions like:

● Relieving psoriasis and shingles (Herpes zoster).

● Osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis (studies show modest relief after weeks of use).

● Fibromyalgia (limited studies suggest reduced tenderness).

● Cluster headaches (nasal application has been explored but requires extreme care).

● Diabetic neuropathy.

3. Cardiovascular Potential

Some studies suggest that cayenne can help with regulating blood flow by equalizing and strengthening the heart, arteries, capillaries, and nerves. It is believed that cayenne can be beneficial to those with varicose veins. Cayenne is also believed to aid in circulation and to those who suffer from chilblains. Research is still underway to find out if cayenne can help cut cholesterol and prevent heart disease. It is too soon to draw conclusions from this research.

4. Other Traditional Uses

● Cold/flu symptom relief (e.g., teas with ginger juice, lime, honey, milk, lemon, and/or elderberries).

● Antimicrobial support.

● Metabolism boost

● Self-defense (capsaicin is the active ingredient in pepper spray).

The FDA lists red pepper/cayenne as Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS) for most adults when used in normal culinary quantities. However, individuals looking to use red pepper/cayenne medicinally should consult a healthcare provider.

● Handling: Wear gloves when chopping fresh peppers; use vinegar or milk to neutralize skin/mouth burn (casein in milk binds capsaicin).

● Pregnancy/Breastfeeding: There is no strong evidence that cayenne causes issues with menstruation. Culinary amounts are generally safe, but avoid supplements or large doses – consult a doctor. Limited data; some reports of infant rashes from maternal spicy food.

● Children: Avoid under age 2; use sparingly in older kids.

● Cayenne may cause minor discomforts like stomach upset, diarrhea, or burning sensations during bowel movements in some individuals. If these effects persist, reduce the amount used or discontinue usage.

Cayenne was traditionally used to flavor cheeses, juices, meats, and soups. However, it also has a history of air purification or perfuming. In 16^th century Europe, houses and castles were scented with herbs that were burned slowly over charcoal. To this day, areas of France still utilize cayenne to fragrance the air.

Some individuals may be allergic to chamomile, especially those with sensitivities to plants in the ragweed family. If you experience symptoms of hay fever, such as itching, sneezing, or a runny nose, it’s best to discontinue use.

Historical reviews show very few serious issues—no reported deaths from chamomile use in long-term records, with allergies being uncommon and mostly mild. Researchers that compiled a list of medical records from 1887 to 1982 found no deaths from Chamomile usage. It did find 50 allergic reaction in the 95 years of research. Forty five of the incidences were from Roman Chamomile and five of the incidences were from German Chamomile.

Start with small amounts if new to it, and avoid if you have known allergies to related plants.

Cayenne offers a wide range of therapeutic benefits, from aiding digestion to providing relief for chronic pain. While it has a proven track record for various health applications, it must be used cautiously. Proper handling and awareness of potential side effects are necessary for safe use. With continued research, cayenne may eventually play an even greater role in treating heart disease and other health conditions. Always consult a healthcare provider before using cayenne medicinally to ensure safe and effective treatment.

DISCLAIMER: This information has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. For educational purposes only. If you are considering using herbs for a medical condition, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional before doing so.

Buhner, Stephen Harrod. Herbal Antibiotics. Storey Publishing, 2012.

Buhner, Stephen Harrod. Herbal Antivirals.Storey Publishing, 2013.

Castleman, Michael. The New Healing Herbs.Rodale, Inc., 2001.

Garland, Sarah. The Complete Book of Herbs & Spices.Frances Lincoln Publishers Limited, 1979.

Hoffman, David. Herbal.Element Books, 1996.

Hylton, William H. (Editor). The Rodale Herb Book, Eighth Printing.Rodale Press, Inc. 1976.

Murray, Michael, N.D. and Joseph Pizzorno, N. D. Encyclopedia of Natural Medicine, Revised 2^nd Edition. Three Rivers Press, 1998.

We are full time homesteaders at Pioneer Mountain Homestead in the Appalachian Mountains of south-central Pennsylvania.   We have a sawmill, produce garden, honeybees, layer hens, laying ducks, pigs, and goats. We provide boat and camper storage to nearby visitors of Raystown Lake and sell firewood and lumber in south central Pennsylvania.  Our journey is to be as self-reliant as we can be; to live as much as we can from the resources we have at hand; to effectively be productive with as minimal environmental impact as possible; to raise food in an organic manner; and to give back to our community through education or demonstration. We are always learning, as well. Life is always an adventure! We enjoy learning from others and seeing what other people are doing as well.  – Bren and Chuck

Disclaimer: Pioneer Mountain Homestead blogs, vlogs, opinions, and videos are for entertainment purposes only. Always read and understand safety guidelines when using any information shared by Pioneer Mountain Homestead, LLC.

Other products or information you may be interested in:

Disclosure of Material Connection:  Some of the links in this page or post may be “affiliate links”.  This means that if you click on the link, Pioneer Mountain Homestead, LLC may receive an affiliate commission at no direct cost to you.   Pioneer Mountain Homestead, LLC only recommends products or services that the owners, managers, or employees of Pioneer Mountain Homestead, LLC use or believe will add value to the readers of this website.  This disclosure is made with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Privacy Policy