Powerful Cayenne Part I by Dazzle .....

The potent, hot fruit of cayenne has been used as medicine for centuries... and may be safely used in all cases of disease...

Date:   4/5/2006 9:39:39 AM ( 18 y ago)

 This is a very long, yet extremely thorough article on the properties and benefits of cayenne pepper.  I discovered cayenne pepper some 25 years ago and have been using it regularly since.  I reared my children on cayenne pepper. My husband, Snuzin (CZ handle), likes to remark that no self-respecting germ will come near any of us because our bodies are saturated with cayenne pepper. 

I read in Jethro Klaus's book Back to Eden that in the deserts of South America and Africa where people sometimes die, vultures will not touch the corpses because they are saturated with cayenne pepper, as it is a staple for the indigeneous peoples of South America and Africa, as well as Mexico and Central America.

In my humble opinion and based from my own experiences and experiments, cayenne pepper should be a fundamental food for all peoples everywhere and it is a staple in my household.

~ Dazzle

Originally from South America, the cayenne plant has spread across the globe both as a food and as a medicine. Cayenne is very closely related to bell peppers, jalapeños, paprika, and other similar peppers.

In what conditions might cayenne be supportive?  Bursitis, diabetic neuropathy, osteoarthritis, psoriasis, rheumatoid arthritis, shingles (herpes zoster), postherpetic neuralgia.

Historical or traditional use: The potent, hot fruit of cayenne has been used as medicine for centuries. 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. It is still traditionally used in herbal medicine as a circulatory tonic (a substance believed to improve circulation). Rubbed on 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 which 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).

Active constituents: Cayenne contains a resinous and pungent substance known as capsaicin. This chemical relieves pain and itching by acting on sensory nerves. Capsaicin temporarily stimulates release of various neurotransmitters from these nerves, leading to their depletion. Without the neurotransmitters, pain signals can no longer be sent.1 The effect is temporary. Capsaicin and other constituents in cayenne have been shown to have several other actions, including reducing platelet stickiness and acting as antioxidants.

How much should I take? Creams containing 0.025-0.075% capsaicin are generally used. There may be a burning sensation for the first several times the cream is applied, but this should gradually decrease with each use. The hands must be carefully and thoroughly washed after use, or gloves should be worn, to prevent the cream from accidentally reaching the eyes, nose, or mouth, which would cause a burning sensation. Do not apply the cream to areas of broken skin. A cayenne tincture can be used in the amount of 0.3-1 ml three times daily. Are there any side effects or interactions? Besides causing a mild burning for the first few applications (or severe burning if accidentally placed in sensitive areas, such as the eyes), there are no side effects from use of the capsaicin cream. Very high intake of cayenne internally may cause ulcers, but the necessary amount is rarely achieved with sensible intake.

As with anything applied to the skin, some people may have an allergic reaction to the cream, so the first application should be to a very small area of skin.

“CAPSICUM”
BY DR. JOHN R. CHRISTOPHER

FAMILY: SOLANACEAE (‘Solamen’ in Latin means “quieting”); these are nightshades, which include: tomato, potato, red/green bell peppers; eggplant; and the deadly nightshade, henbane, Jimson weed, the petunia, and tobacco. There are 75 genera and over 2000 species; most are herbs, some are small shrubs, and a few are small trees. The leaves show great variation in size and shape but are always arranged in an alternate fashion on the stems. It is the flowers, however, as is true of most plant families, that offer the best characteristics for the recognition of the family. Both sepals and petals are present. The five united or partially united petals usually form a symmetrical corolla, which is wheel or bell shaped. The stamens, usually five in number, attached near the base of the corolla. The superior ovary contains two cavities. At maturity, the ovary becomes a fleshy or dry fruit containing many seeds. The fleshy type of fruit is called a berry and is the more common type in the family; the dry fruit is known as a capsule. Presumably all members of the family developed from one common ancestor in the remote geological past.

The name “Cayenne” is derived from the river Cayenne in French Guiana. Pepper is a misnomer when applied to Cayenne; Cayenne is commonly called Guinea Pepper in England and Europe.  

As an herb for health our attention is concerned with CAPSICUM ANNUM AND CAPSICUM FRUTESCENS; AKA “bird pepper’ or ‘guinea pepper’.  

COMMON NAMES: African pepper; African red pepper; American red pepper; bird pepper, capsicum, cayenne, cayenne pepper, Spanish pepper, Casique or Poivre de Cayenne (French); Spanisher Pfeffer or Scholtenpfeffer (German).

IDENTIFYING CHARACTERISTICS: The most pungent is the yellowish red fruit of Sierra Leone; the African birdseye Cayenne (Capsicum fastigiatum) are small, pungent, bright pods and retain the heat in the body longer than any other variety. Zanzibar chilies often have the stalks attached. The African varieties grow on shrub-size plants and the fruit is small and pungent, while the American varieties are herb-size plants with the fruit being larger and heart shaped.

PART USED—FRUIT (the oil is in the seeds).
 

THERAPEUTIC ACTION: Stimulant, tonic, carminative, sialogogue (stimulates the secretion of saliva), stomachic, rubefacient, pungent, alterative, astringent, antispasmodic, sudorific, emetic, antiseptic, condiment, anti-rheumatic.

• Cayenne is a medicinal and nutritional herb; it is the purest and most certain stimulant. There can be little doubt that Cayenne furnishes one of the purest and strongest stimulants, which can be introduced into the stomach; while at the same time it has nothing of the narcotic effects of ardent spritis. It is said to have been used with success in curing some cases or disease that had resisted all other remedies. It is no doubt the most powerful stimulant known; its power is entirely congenial t nature, being powerful only in raising and maintaining the heat on which life depends. It is extremely pungent, and when taken, sets the mouth as it were on fire; this last, however, but a few minutes, and I consider it essentially a benefit, for its effects on the glands causes the saliva to flow freely, and leaves the mouth clean and moist.

• Practice has proved Cayenne to be a PURE STIMULANT; one that may be safely administered and efficaciously applied, under every disease, whenever anything in the form of a stimulant is required by the system; in fact, no other medicine can as easily restore and retain the vital heat of the body. It also excites and promotes profuse perspiration, and in all cases in perfect harmony with the animal economy. It imparts a pungent heat to the throat and mouth, but this may be considered as indicative of its good qualities, for it is thus made to act powerfully on the salivary glands without injuring them and preserves a good tone to the digestive organs. The warmth that it imparts to the stomach causes an equal distribution of the fluids, without which health cannot possibly be retained in a animal economy. When taken into the stomach, it retains its heat longer than any other stimulant; at times it imparts a powerful sense of heat to the bowels, occasioned by the sudden expansion of the parts which have previously been cramped and contracted with pain. The active stimulus of the pepper thus operating upon the parts affected, produces a speedy reaction in the system, removing the obstructions by natural evacuations and profuse perspiration.

• Cayenne as a nutritional herb: start with a small amount of 40 thousand Skoville unit Cayenne, take approximately a level ¼ teaspoon, or one ‘0’ capsule full. Stir into a small amount of water and drink. Do this twice a day. When adjusted to this level of Cayenne then increase the daily amount gradually over a period of time, I suggest 12-18 months, until one teaspoon is being consumed three times a day. To begin with it is best to use Cayenne just before a meal. Over time Cayenne can be taken on an empty stomach, again start out with small amounts and increase gradually over time.

• This herb is a great food for the circulatory system in that it feeds the necessary elements into the cell structure of the arteries, veins and capillaries so that these regain the elasticity of youth again, and the blood pressure adjusts itself to normal. It rebuilds the tissue in the stomach and heals the stomach and intestinal ulcers; in equalizing the blood circulation, Cayenne produces natural warmth; and in stimulating the peristaltic motion of the intestines, it aids in assimilation and elimination.

• When the venous structure becomes loaded with sticky mucus, the blood has a harder time circulating; therefore, higher pressure forces the liquid through. Cayenne regulates the flow of blood from the head to the feet so that the pressure is equalized; it influences the heart immediately, then gradually extends its effects to the arteries, capillaries, and nerves (the frequency of the pulse is not increased, but is given more vigor).

• CIRCULATION—Warming; dilating; specific for varicose veins; equalizes the blood pressure in the arterial and venous system; equalizes;

• FOR: allergies; muscle cramps; improved digestion; more pep and energy; wound healing with minimal scar tissue.
• Cayenne is a counter-irritant; brings blood to the surface to take toxins away. (anti-inflammatory)

• Capsicum supports the natural beat (rhythm) of the viscera and interior actions of the glandular, circulatory, lymphatic, and digestive systems. It has been used with great success as a cure for spotted fever (?); the most active stimulant to support and re-animate feeble or exhausted powers.

• This is a medicine of great value in the practice, and may be safely used in all cases of disease, to raise and retain the internal vital heat of the system, cause a free perspiration, and keep the determining powers to the surface. The only preparation is to have it reduced to a fine powder. For a dose, take from half to a teaspoonful in hot water or tea sweetened with honey.

• Dr. Coffin includes Cayenne pepper in his composition powder to restore the normal function of the body in the various stages of pregnancy and childbirth. For morning sickness he recommends a combination of ‘White poplar bark, agrimony, centaury, raspberry leaves, yarrow and rhubarb, each a quarter of an ounce, steep in two quarts of water, strain, and add while hot two teaspoons of powdered cinnamon, half a teaspoonful of Cayenne pepper, and let the patient take one tablespoonful every three hours until the symptoms are removed if this should not relieve, give an emetic and repeat if necessary. 

For heartburn, Dr. Coffin recommended four ounces of white poplar bark to one quart of water to which was added ½ ounce of powdered myrrh and ½ teaspoon of Cayenne. 

Cayenne is included n various formulas by Dr. Coffin for the relief of difficulty in passing urine, swelling of the legs, pains in the back, colic, cramps, convulsions, and flooding preceding miscarriage.

• Capsicum is a powerful rubefacient.

• Capsicum is a general nervous stimulant; a specific for delirium tremens.

• For atonic gout, in paralysis, in dropsy, in tympanitis, and in the debilitated stages of fever.

• For Scrofulous; dyspepsia; flatulence; an excellent carminative.

• For sore throat—gargle (prepare the gargle with honey); for spasmodic and irritating coughs; heartburn and diarrhea;
• Enables feeble stomachs to digest food; for atonic dyspepsia; specific for hemorrhoids; cures intermittent fever; Capsicum has the power to control menorrhagia; relieves sea-sickness;

• In delirium tremens it is beneficial by enabling the patient to retain and digest food.

• Capsicum is particularly efficient in tonsillitis, and the sore throat of scarlet fever and in diphtheria no application is so efficient as a strong gargle or wash make with Capsicum.

• Promote digestion; relieves pains of the womb; removes obstructed menstruation; for quinsy; for all diseases of the throat; use as a plaster with honey for rheumatic pains, pains of the joints, gout, swellings &c; Use outwardly as a liniment, apply it warm or hot for arthritis and rheumatism; gargle for scarlet fever; use an infusion for ulcers in the mouth, strep throat or tonsillitis. (p.103)

• Cayenne is an excellent remedy for a cold; mix infusion with slippery elm and molasses or honey, and take in doses throughout the day; also excellent for sore throat and coughs.

• Cayenne mixed with pennyroyal taken for three days will expel the deadbirth from a miscarriage.

• Eases toothache; preserves the teeth from rotting, and when rubbed on the gums, stimulates them enough to prevent pyorrhea.

• Excellent for any type of internal hemorrhage, (create an infusion with bethroot or star root);

• Capsicum is an important remedy in cholera; Capsicum stops vomiting (combine with equal parts of Capsicum and common table salt, one half ounce of each, one pint of good vinegar, give in tablespoon doses for cholera, vomiting cholera morbus.

• In chronic lumbago a plaster of Capsicum with garlic, pepper and liquid amber (silarasa) or storax is an efficient stimulant and rubefacient application.

• When made in to a lozenge with sugar and tragacanth it is a remedy for hoarseness.

• For a carminative make pills of equal parts of Capsicum, rhubarb and ginger or aloes.

• Combine Capsicum with cinchona for intermittent and lethargic affections and for atonic gout and in advanced stages of rheumatism.

• Combine with asafoetida and sweet flag root or camphor in the form of pills in cases of cholera.

• Capsicum has a powerful action on the mucous membrane, and in hoarseness and sore throat, and in putrid throat a gargle made of Capsicum is particularly beneficial.

• By pouring hot vinegar upon the fruits of Capsicum all the essential qualities are preserved. This vinegar is an excellent stomachic.

• The whole plant steeped in milk is successfully applied to reduce swellings and hardened tumors.

• An infusion with cinnamon and sugar is a valuable drink for patients suffering from delirium tremens as it satisfies the craving in dipsomaniacs. A dose of ten grains of finely powdered capsicum seed, given with an ounce of hot water, two or three times a day, sometimes shows wonderful effects in cases of delirium tremens.

• Capsicum can be used in snake bite.

• As well as the fruit being used as a spice, the leaves were applied to ulcers and headaches.

• Capsicum is given internally in atonic dyspepsia and flatulence. It is used externally as a counter-irritant in the form of ointment, plaster, medicated wool, &c. for the relief of rheumatism and lumbago.

• Oral administration of Capsicum may stimulate the gal bladder reflex.

• Capsicum either contains a cholagogue, or acts as a powerful stimulus upon the mucous membrane of the duodenum.

• In “The Antibacterial Effects of Spices,” “?nine of the spices were found to be active. Garlic, particularly, and onions were active against all organisms (streptococci, Escherichia coli, Bacillus prodigiosis, B. proteus, B. subtilis, Shigella paradysenteriae Flexner, Ebertherla typhsa, Salmonella enteriditis, and Vibrio cholerae). The seven other spices (clove mustard, radish, horseradish, marjoram sage, paprika) were weaker and to attack some of the microorganisms. The action of garlic was by far the strongest. The most active spices come from members of the Liliaceae, then follow the Cruciferae, Myrtaceae and finally Libiatae. In mustard seeds, radish and horseradish, the antibacterial action was proportional to their content of mustard oils. Spices containing essential amounts of tannic substances or alkaloids were also effective. Garlic and onions were more effective when crushed then when segmented. Garlic was also active at a distance through the air but not onions, while both showed a diffusive inhibiting activity in agar. Bacteria could not be made resistant to spices. From this it seems apparent that a combination of garlic and cayenne would be very effective bestowing an immunity to unwanted bacteria upon the human system.

• Red Pepper, a too much forgotten therapeutic agent against anorexia, liver congestion, and vascular troubles. Capsicum is highly effective in causing hemorrhoids to regress; and these fruits have the same action on varicose veins. The results are attributed to alkaloids or glucosides in the peppers.

• Excessive amounts of Capsicum (above 20 grams, thus, nearly an ounce) may induce frequent bowel movements.

• Capsicum stimulates the appetite, more especially as a hot climate tends to produce anorexia. We have always held the saliva is the key that unlocks the door to digestion. Capsicum, a sialogogue, will stimulate the flow of saliva and will be very helpful to people who have become accustomed to ‘inhaling’ their food and thus robbing themselves of the benefits of saliva in the digestive process. Capsicum would stimulate their flow of saliva as they return to a healthier attitude toward eating.

• Capsicum may be valuable in the prevention and treatment of blood clots.

• Capsicum is very soothing; it is effective as a poultice for rheumatism, inflammation, pleurisy, and helpful also if taken internally for these. For sores and wounds it makes a good poultice. It is a stimulant when taken internally as well as being antispasmodic. Good for kidneys, spleen and pancreas; wonderful for lockjaw; will heal a sore ulcerated stomach; Capsicum is a specific and very effective remedy for yellow fever, as well as other fevers and may be taken in capsules followed by a glass of water.

• It is part of a liniment, which may be made as follows: 
2 ounces of gum myrrh. 
One ounce of golden seal 
On half ounce of Capsicum, 90K or stronger. 

Put this into a quart of rubbing alcohol, or take a pint of raspberry vinegar and a pint of water. Add the alcohol or vinegar to the powder. Let it stand for a week or ten days, shaking every day. This can be used where ever liniment is used or needed. It is very healing to wounds, bruises, sprains, scalds, burns, and sunburns, and should be applied freely. Wonderful results are obtained in pyorrhea by rinsing the mouth with the liniment or applying the liniment on both sides of the gums with a little cotton or gauze.

• Capsicum is an almost certain remedy for yellow fever, and almost every other form of human malady. There is, perhaps, no other article which produces so powerful an impression on the animal frame that is so destitute of all injurious properties. It seems almost incapable of abuse. Thus it is jot only stimulant, but antispasmodic, sudorific, febrile, anti-inflammatory, depurating, and restorative. It is powerful to arrest hemorrhage from the mucous membranes. When the stomach is soul, a strong dose of the powder will excite vomiting and an enema of it and lobelia and slippery elm will relieve the most obstinate constipation. Taken in powder in cold water it is sure to move not only the internal canal, but al the splanchnic (Greek, of or relating to viscera) viscera, as the liver, the kidneys, the spleen and the pancreas, the mesentery (tissue that connects the intestines with the wall of the abdominal cavity), &c. 

Capsicum along with lobelia, some good astringent, such as bayberry or sumac leaves, a good bitter, a mucilage, a good sudorific and the vapor bath, must ever constitute the basis of the most effective medication. 

• There are several species of Capsicum, but the most prominent are the Capsicum Annum and the Capsicum Fastigiatum-Guinea or African Bird’s Eye Pepper. Capsicum, strange though it may seem, is not a true pepper. The popular but erroneous idea is that anything that is hot is a pepper, and that therefore Capsicum must belong to the pepper family. Capsicum contains a resin and an oil, both of which are very acrid, sharp and biting. Its properties are completely extracted by 98% alcohol, and to a considerable extent by vinegar or boiling water. 

One of the best Liniments in use is prepared as follows: 

Boil gently for ten minutes one tablespoonful of V in one pint of cider vinegar. Bottle that hot, unstrained. This makes a powerfully stimulating external application for deep-seated congestions, sprains, &c.

• Capsicum is a pure stimulant, permanent in its action, and ultimately reaching every organ in the body. It creates at first a sensation of warmth, which afterwards becomes intense, and in large does strongly excites the stomach, which influence can be utilized in the administration of emetics, when the emesis is delayed and needs to be accelerated. For this purpose give a quarter of a teaspoonful in syrup. 

Capsicum by its sudden and intense stimulation of the stomach, will produce hiccoughs. 

It acts mainly upon the circulation, but also on the nervous structures. Its influence, which is immediate on the heart, finally extends to the capillaries, giving tone to the circulation, but not increasing the frequency of the pulse so much as giving power to it. In prostrating fevers and putrescent tendencies it may be used in full quantities combined with other suitable agents. It is a good addition to relaxant cathartics, to prevent griping and facilitates their operation when the tissues are in a sluggish condition. In cases of constipation, Capsicum is efficacious in stimulating the peristaltic motion of the bowels. For this effect, give small doses daily. Of course, constipation never can be cured by physic alone. Temporary relief may be obtained from cathartics, but any medicinal efforts must be combined with proper diet in order to effect a permanent cure.

• Capsicum is valuable in all forms of ague (fever marked by paroxysms of chills and sweating that occur at regular intervals, as in Malaria) by sustaining the portal circulation. In cases of chill, give large doses of Capsicum. By a large dose is meant is 10 to 15 grains, or a No. 0 capsule (10 grains) to a No. 00 capsule (15 grains).

• In coughs where there is an abundant secretion of mucus in the respiratory passages, Capsicum increases the power of expectoration, and thus facilitates its removal. In connection with Capsicum may be mentioned the slippery elm compound, which is excellent for coughs. 

 Cut obliquely into small pieces about the thickness of a match, one ounce or more, of slippery elm bark; add a pinch of Capsicum, flavour with a slice of lemon, sweeten with sugar, and infuse one pint of boiling water. Take this in small doses, frequently repeated. Let a consumptive patient drink a pint of this each day. It is one of the grandest remedies and demulcent properties. As slippery elm is mucilaginous it will roll up the mucus material troubling the patient, and pass it down through the intestines. It is also very nourishing, and possesses wonderful healing properties. 

 For an infant’s food mix (slippery elm) with an equal quantity of milk, and leave out the lemon and cayenne.

• Capsicum is good in coughs, torpor of the kidneys and to arrest mortification. It is good in all forms of low disease.

• The key to success in medicine is stimulation and Capsicum is the great stimulant. There are many languid people who need something to make the fire of life burn more brightly.

• It is excellent in yellow fever, black vomit, putrefaction or decay, given frequently in small does. It is good, also, in asthmatical asphyxia (i.e., when a person cannot get their breath), combined with lobelia in what would be called the Lobelia Compound. It is good in profound shock. For local application it is effective as the base of a stimulating liniment. It is not injurious to the skin.

• Capsicum tincture may be made as follows: 
Take two ounces of Cayenne and macerate for ten to fourteen days in one quart of alcohol. Then strain and bottle. Keep in a warm place while macerating during cold weather.

• A Capsicum Liniment is made as follows: 

Tincture of Cayenne   one quart. 
Castille Soap    Two ounces. 
Oil of Hemlock Spruce   one half ounce. 
Oil of Origanum    one half ounce. 
Oil of Cedar    one half ounce. 
Oil of Peppermint   one half ounce. 

Shave or scrape the soap very fine, and dissolve in one pint of water. Stir the oils into the tincture and mix with the soapy solution. A little additional oil of peppermint will greatly increase its efficacy. In a four-ounce bottle put one ounce of the lobelia compound (without gum of myrrh) and fill the bottle up with the stimulating liniment. Shake this well, and after application cover the affected part with a piece of warmed flannel.
• OIL OF CAPSICUM—The oil of capsicum represents the stimulating property of the plant in highly concentrated form. It is exceedingly strong, and the dose must be not more than one drop given on sugar. 

For the relief of toothache, first clean out the cavity of the tooth, then make a small plug of cotton wool saturated with oil of Capsicum, which press into the cavity, and it will, in most cases, cure the toothache by its stimulating and antiseptic qualities. The beneficial effect will last for months.

• MYRICA COMPOUND-- 
Bayberry Bark     eight ounces. 
African Ginger     four ounces. 
Prickly Ash Berries    one ounce. 
Canada Snake Root    three ounces. 
Capsicum     2 drachms. 

Powder the above; then pass the powder through a softer, and they will be mixed to perfection. 

For emetic teas, make three pints of composition, two pints of lobelia infusion, and three pints of catnip or peppermint infusion. 

Having considered the various ingredients in the Myrica compound (‘composition powder’) we will now pass it under review.
• The Bayberry is astringent and stimulant.

• The ginger root is a diffusive stimulant and antispasmodic, and warming, prompt but kindly in action.

• The Canada snake root has an influence similar to that of ginger, but is more aromatic, and corrects the acridness of the other ingredients.

• The Prickly Ash berry constitutes the peripheral stimulant.

• The Capsicum is the great arterial stimulant, and imparts energy to the action of the whole compound. Capsicum cannot be equaled by any known agent when a powerful and prolonged stimulant is needed, as in congestive chills, heart failure, and other conditions calling for quick action. The entire circulation is affected by this agent and there is no reaction.

• In congested, ulcerated or infectious sore throat it is an excellent agent, but should be combined with myrrh to relieve and remove morbidity.

• Capsicum is antiseptic and therefore a most valuable agent as a gargle in ordinary sore throat or in diphtheria (an acute febrile contagious disease marked by the formation of a false membrane esp., in the throat and caused by a bacterium [corynebacterium diphtheriae] that produces a toxin causing inflammation of the heart and nervous system).

• In uterine hemorrhages it is ideal combined with bayberry and will do more than any other remedy could.

• Capsicum has the power to arouse the action of the secreting organs and always follows the use of Lobelia.

• When there is inactivity of the entire system, as in ‘spring fever’ Capsicum is indicated. In fact, whenever there is disinclination of activity it is an ideal stimulant, arousing the sluggish organism to action.

• In indigestion where gas is present, it should be given in conjunction with small does (1 to 5 grains) of lobelia, as Capsicum increases the glandular activity of both stomach and intestines.

• In so-called ‘low’ fevers, where the temperature is below normal, Capsicum is indicated and should be prescribed consistently.

• On the outset of a cold, when there are chills, cold and clammy feelings, the feet damp and cold, Capsicum should be taken in full dose (5 to 10 grains).

• Even in cholera morbus and atonic diarrhea, where stimulants are usually contra-indicated, Capsicum is valuable in that it ‘tones’ the organs and establishes natural activity.

• In all disease prostrating in their nature, whether pneumonia, pleurisy or typhoid fever,  is invaluable in the prescription as the toning agent which helps the system t throw off the disease and reestablish equilibrium.

• In all acute conditions where Capsicum is indicated, the call is for the maximum dose—from three to ten grains, preferably in tablet form, followed by a large drink of hot water. In chronic and sluggish conditions, the small dose frequently given is 1 to 3 grains with either hot or cold water.

• Capsicum plasters are valuable in pneumonia, pleurisy and other forms of acute congestion. Combine with lobelia and bran or hops. One hour is the maximum time to keep them applied. 

• It is the only natural stimulant worth while considering in diarrhea and dysentery with bloody mucus, stools and offensive breath.

• Capsicum is indicated in all low fevers and prostrating disease. It increases the power of all other agents, and helps the digestion when taken with meals, and arouses all the secreting organs.

• Capsicum, Cayenne (red pepper) is not a pepper; no more than water pepper or peppermint is a pepper; Peppermint will known all over the civilized world is very heating, will stimulate like a drink of whiskey, but there is no reaction from it, no bad after effects. It permanently strengthens the whole system. Red pepper does the same.

• The African bird pepper is the purest and best stimulant known. It has a pungent taste, and is the most persistent heart stimulant ever known. It is exceedingly prompt in its effects. Through the circulation, its influence is manifest through the whole body. The heart first, next the arteries, then the capillaries, and the nerves. We have known in cases of apoplexy a bath of hot water and mustard with half a teaspoon of Capsicum added and the feet thrust in to give good results, the pressure being removed from the brain by equalizing the circulation.

• The Natives of the West Indies soak the pods in water, add sugar and the juice of sour oranges, and drink freely in fevers. Capsicum has a wonderful place in inflammation.

• Capsicum is useful in cramps, pains in the stomach and bowels, and sometimes in constipation will crate a heat in the bowels, causing peristaltic action of parts previously contracted. In these later cases it would be well to give it in small doses in the form of warm infusion, from half to one teaspoonful to a cup of boiling water. In typhoid fever, in combination with hepatics and a little golden seal, it will sustain the portal circulation and give much more power to the hepatics used.

• In colds, relaxed throat, cold condition of the stomach, dyspepsia, spasm, palpitation, particularly in the acute stages, give a warm infusion of Capsicum in small repeat doses, about two teaspoonfuls every half hour or more frequently if required.

• A little Capsicum sprinkled in the shoes will greatly assist in cold feet.

• In hemorrhage from the lungs place your patient in the vapor bath and give an infusion of Capsicum. The pressure will be taken from the ruptured vessels and good results obtained.

• In quinsy and diphtheria, apply the tincture of cayenne around the neck. Then place a flannel around the neck wet with the infusion of cayenne, and freely use the infusion orally at the same time.

• Surgeons of the French army have been in the habit of giving Capsicum to the soldiers who were exhausted by fatigue.

• For Scarlet Fever: Powdered Capsicum made into pills with crumbs of bread and given four times a day, three or four each time, is a most valuable stimulant in the last stages of the disease, and is also good in all cases of debility, from whatever cause it may arise. Capsicum given in half teaspoonful does, mixed with treacle and slippery elm, at night, is a valuable remedy for a cough. Bleeding of the lungs is easily checked by the use of Capsicum and the vapor bath.

• Cayenne is a food as well as a medicinal herb. It is unequalled for warding off diseases (see also garlic).

• A preparation in use in the West Indies called Mandram, for weak digestion and loss of appetite, is made of thinly sliced and unskinned cucumber, shallots, chives or onions, lemon or lime juice, Madeira, and a few pods of bird pepper will mashed up in the liquids. It can be used as a chutney.

• For asthma, combine Capsicum with lobelia.

• Wonderful for lock-jaw, combine Capsicum with lobelia.

• Capsicum arouses all the secreting organs, and will ultimately reach every organ of the body.

• Capsicum is believed to be wholesome for persons of phlegmatic temperament, being considered stimulating.

• Mexican Indians, who use Cayenne pepper as an internal disinfectant, to overcome the dangers of impure food. 


PREPARATION: Cayenne is prepared into decoctions, infusions, ointments, powder, paste and tinctures.

• Cayenne is seldom used in the vagina as in Boluses; it could be, but it is too uncomfortable.

• Very seldom is a decoction used because some of the value of the Cayenne is lost when it is simmered for any length of time.

• The most common form of preparation is the INFUSION. This is made by pouring hot water over the Cayenne and letting it set. The infusion can be used with absolute safety.

• Cayenne can be used as a liniment—use 1/8 or 1/6 part to other oils or salves. Use very little at a time, as it is very potent. With ointments, Cayenne is used in approximately 1/8 proportion to other herbs.

• Cayenne is used in nearly all fomentations, plaster, and poultices where speed is necessary, or where quick relief (as in arthritis, rheumatism, bursitis, sore muscles &c.) is necessary.

• It is used dry on wounds, and it is used in prescriptions and formulas mixed with many other types of herbs. In using the powder in poultices, plasters, suppositories, enemas, etc., the Cayenne used should be 1/8 part in proportion to the other herbs that are used, according to the individual case.

• In the liquid extract or in the tincture, Cayenne is easily kept and very valuable to have on hand. Use this moderately, as it is many times stronger than the infusion.

• The only preparation necessary, it to have it ground or pounded to a fine powder. For a dose, from half to a full teaspoon full may be taken in hot water sweetened with honey. It will produce a free perspiration, which should be kept up by repeating the dose, until the disease is removed.

• One spoonful of this preparation may be taken to good advantage, and will remove faint, sinking feelings which some are subject to, especially in the spring of the year.  

DOSAGE:

• INFUSION—Steep the Cayenne in hot water for a few minutes, allow to cool and drink; it is OK to drink the Cayenne along with the water, but not necessary. Start with about a level ¼ teaspoon three times daily; 

Then after three days, increase the dose to ½ teaspoon three times a day; 

Then add ¼ teaspoon each day thereafter until the minimum recommended dosage of one teaspoonful three times daily is reached.

• For Heart Palpitation—In the acute stage, repeated dosages of one to two teaspoonfuls every half-hour (or more frequently when required).

• Hemorrhage—One Teaspoonful of powder in a cup of hot water. Let cool and drink the water; drink the cayenne as well if possible.

• LINIMENTS— A good liniment fro sprains, bruises, rheumatism, and neuralgia may be made as follows: 

Tincture of Capsicum    Two Fluid Ounces. 
Fluid Extract of Lobelia    Two Fluid Ounces. 
Oil of Wormwood    One Fluid Drachm. 
Oil of Rosemary    One Fluid Drachm. 
Oil of Spearmint    One Fluid Drachm. 
Use for sprains, bruises, rheumatism and neuralgia.

• HOMEOPATHIC RUBRICS: Amaurosis; asthma; brain irritation; delirium tremens; cough; diarrhea; diphtheria; dysentery; ear affections; glandular swellings; hemorrhoids; headache; heartburn; hernia; homesickness; intermittent fevers; affections of the lungs; measles; mouth ulcers; neuralgia; affections of the nose; obesity; esophagus stricture; paralysis; pleuro-pneumonia; pregnancy disorders; disease of the rectum; rheumatic gout; rheumatism; sciatica; scrofula; sea-sickness; stomatitis; sore throat; tongue paralysis; trachea tickling; disorders of urinary system; whooping cough; yellow fever.

• DOSES: 
For a gargle—one half drachm of powder to one pint of boiling water. 

One half ounce of the tincture to eight ounces of water. 

If the throat is very sensitive it can be given in pill form—generally made with one to ten grains of powder. The infusion is made with two drachms to one half pint boiling water taken in one half fluid ounce doses. The tincture is used as a paint for chilblains (inflammatory swelling or soreness caused by exposure to the cold).

• To make Chilli vinegar: pour hot vinegar over Capsicum powder, steep for twenty minutes or so, and drink for stomach problems.

• COMPOSITION POWDER— 
Bayberry Bark (powdered)    one ounce. 
Wild Ginger      one half ounce. 
Capsicum      one drachm. 
A teaspoonful of the mixture to a teacupful of boiling water is taken warm at bed-time to ward off the effects of chill, and as a general stimulant.  

• SOLVENTS—98% alcohol; hot or cold vinegar or boiling water.

• MEDICINAL PART—the fruit.

• BODILY INFLUENCE—Stimulant; Tonic; Carminative; Diaphoretic; Rubefacient; Condiment. 

USES—The all supporting, stimulating effect of Capsicum is the infallible action of internal success. Capsicum taken with burdock, golden seal, ginger, slippery elm, &c., will soon diffuse itself throughout the whole system, equalizing the circulation in all diseases that depend upon an increase of blood, and unlike most of the stimulants of allopathy, it is not narcotic.

HOW CAYENNE IS USED.

• ACCENTUATOR—Cayenne, used as an accentuator, will increase the value and the healing properties of other herbs. Cayenne and other stimulants give activation when used with herbs such as yarrow. Cayenne will accentuate the therapeutic action of the yarrow and the yarrow will be felt in the lungs and the respiratory system faster.

• ANTISEPTIC—For sore and infectious throat, combine Cayenne with Lobelia and slippery elm.

• CARRIER—Cayenne is can be used to carry other herbal agents more quickly to any specific area (it does this by stimulation and dilation of the circulatory system).

• CATHARTIC—Cayenne is used with cathartics for the bowels. It is a good addition to relaxant cathartics, as Cayenne prevents griping.

• DIAPHORETIC—Cayenne is used with bayberry or pleurisy root to increase perspiration, and with tonics to reduce perspiration.

• EMMENAGOGUE—Cayenne will take uterine agents such as holy thistle directly to the uterus. Cayenne is employed when the treatment is intended for the entire body, however, Ginger will carry the herb to the reproductive organs and the abdominal area faster than Cayenne.

• EMETICS—A strong dose of Cayenne powder will bring on vomiting and in combination with other emetics their effect is accelerated.

• EXPECTORANT—Cayenne is used in compounds for coughs where expectorants clear the respiratory passages of mucus. Cayenne increases the power and process of expectoration.

• CONDIMENT—When used as a condiment Cayenne pepper acts chiefly by stimulating the salivary and gastric glands and promoting the peristaltic action of the alimentary canal.

• Use as a supreme and harmless internal disinfectant. To expel worms; a tonic for all organs of the body, including the heart.

• Use to increase fertility and defer senility.

• For treatment of seriously infected wounds.

• For fumigation. In ancient times, such fumigation was considered a protection against vampires and werewolves.

• Use externally for severe wounds and old sores, disinfect by covering the place with the powdered pepper. It will burn and smart for a brief time in the way that lemon juice does when applied to wounds, but likewise is harmless and highly curative.

• For fumigation, sprinkle several tablespoonfuls of the powdered pepper on a tin lid, place it over a slow flame, seal up all the room and allow the pepper to fume until all is burnt up. Renew several times if necessary. Capsicum is a pungent fumigator detested by vermin, but it is not poisonous in any way, and any place treated with Capsicum can be used very soon after fumigation. 

A combination of Chocolate and Cayenne was a drink/dish reserved for Aztec royalty. Next to maize, the pepper (capsicum) was the foremost plant grown in Central America at the time of the Aztec Empire; of all the species of plant none was so widely used or held in greater esteem.

Smoke from burning peppers was used as a gas in Warfare by the S. American Indians against the Spanish invaders.

Capsicum is of a phenolics nature—in capsicum there is a volatile phenolics compound related to vanillin in structure.

The pepper pod is technically a berry.

Capsicum is eliminated, in part, in the urine.  

In the early 19th Century DR. SAMUEL THOMSON used Capsicum effectively against all manner of disease. Thomson/Thomsonian School of Botanic Medicine. Samuel Thomson: Lobelia the ‘Emetic’ herb never failed him?and became the cornerstone of his healing system; he also used enemas, plus Cayenne, hot sweat baths?, Thomson’s Cayenne stimulated the system, while his emetic and purge produced cleanliness akin to godliness; also he used steam and sweat bath to allay fevers, these also quieted nerves and made for peaceful sickrooms.

• Capsicum—It has been long a subject of deep importance to physicians, to find a stimulant at once powerful and not narcotic; bark and spirits both fail in this respect; and laudanum destroys sensibility and deadens the vital powers; the system is partially destroyed by their action; for it is hostile to life, subverts the natural functions, and it is itself an obstruction of the offices of life. Capsicum supplies this grand desideratum. It is a stimulus, powerful and permanent; not narcotic, nor destructive of the vital functions. It is said to have been found effectual in curing diseases which have resisted all other medicines. It supports the natural beat of the viscera and interior action, beyond anything heretofore known; and has been used with great success in the cure of spotted fever. Like the former medicine (Lobelia), it seems to be safe and salutary, perfectly in harmony with nature, and the most active stimulant to support and re-animate her feeble or exhausted powers.

Capsicum is the botanical name for the red pepper group; there are three major categories:
1. Any ‘red pepper’ that has 1 BTU heat rating or under 1 BTU. This  pepper is commonly called ‘paprika’.
2. Any ‘red pepper’ above 1 BTU but less than 25 BTU’s. These are called ‘red peppers.’
3. Any ‘red pepper’ with 25 BTU, or more, can be labeled as Cayenne.

Thus, Capsicum has three categories based on its BTU heat factor, but any of these can be called Capsicum; Cayenne is the strongest of the Capsicum family.

Cayenne was one of the major foods of the Hunza’s. They eat sparingly, and generally a mono-diet of Apricots.

Cayenne is a rich source of Vitamin A and C.   
 

Cayenne is the purest and most certain stimulant—Cayenne increases the power of the pulse, and carries blood to all parts of the body.

Cayenne goes into the blood stream immediately (via the tongue and the stomach), and adjusts the blood pressure, equalizing it over the entire body.
 

SPECIFIC FOR—

ARTHRITIS; RHEUMATISM; BURSITIS; SORE MUSCLES; ALLERGIES; MUSCLE CRAMPS; POOR DIGESTION; WOUND HEALING WITH MINIMAL SCAR TISSUE; STOMACH ULCERS;

CIRCULATION—warming, dilating; specific for Varicose veins; equalizes the blood pressure in arterial and venous systems; Cayenne is a Stimulant and an Equalizer.

HEMORRHAGE—OF THE LUNGS (use a vapor bath with Cayenne infusion).

HEMORRHAGE—EXTERNAL (put Cayenne directly on the wound, or take internally).

COUNTER-IRRITANT—BRINGS BLOOD TO THE SURFACE TO TAKE AWAY TOXINS.

DIPHTHERIA AND QUINSY--

FOR INCREASED PEP AND ENERGY—

IT WILL CURE THE AGUE IN THE FACE—

Cayenne is very advantageously given in chronic gout, paralysis, fevers, and other cases; in the coma and delirium attendant on tropical fever, cataplasms of capsicum are said to have a speedy and happy effect. A weak infusion of Capsicum has been found a useful application to scrofulous and other languid ulcerations, and the diluted juice is esteemed of great efficacy in chronic opthalmia; a gargle of it is commonly used to cure malignant sore throats.  

• For cholera the Mormons and other early settlers preferred a tea made of Capsicum.

• A wart on the finger can be driven away, it is believed, by wrapping a fresh chilli around the finger every day.

• Capsicum seeds and veins are sometimes burned as a fumigant to get rid of bedbugs.

• May be used in all cases of debility, indigestion, costiveness, chills, heart failure. Capsicum acts mainly upon the circulation. Its influence is immediate on the heart. 

HISTORY AND LORE

• The Church of the Latter Day Saints did not subscribe to the ‘regular’ Medicos, and called them “poison” doctors.

• Priddy Meeks (excerpts from his journal, p. 74): A remedy for diphtheria I never knew to fail: Give a good thorough emetic of lobelia and bathe the throat from ear to ear, and gargle also with a liquid make by putting two teaspoonfuls of finely pulverized lobelia seeds and the same amount of Cayenne pepper into one quart of good keen vinegar, and go though the operation of bathing and gargling as often as the emergency of the case may require. This course will meet the poison inside and out, and destroy its power, lobelia being the most powerful anti-poison that is known. You need not be afraid of it. It is perfectly harmless and operates exactly with the laws of life and health.

• In Mexico the people are very fond of Capsicum and their bodies get thoroughly saturated with it, and if one of them happens to die on the prairie the vultures will not touch the body on account of its being so impregnated with Capsicum. 
 

FROM: “THE HEALTH BENEFITS OF CAYENNE”
BY JOHN HEINERMAN, PH.D.
MAY 18,2003  

Capsiacinoids are the naturally occurring compounds that give cayenne pepper its pungency; they have no odor or flavor, they act directly on pain receptors located in the mouth and throat; the smaller the chili, the hotter its going to be, because smaller chilies have a larger amount of seeds and vein (internal rib) relative to the larger chilies, and these are the parts that contain up to 80 percent of the capsaicin.

The natives of central America called the cayenne pepper “axi”; this translated into “aji” in Spanish; in Mexico City the chili was called “chiltli” in about 1615 the word “chili” was derived from this Aztec name for “aji.”

Cayenne pepper’s common name comes fro the city of Cayenne, located on the Cayenne Island at the mouth of the Cayenne river. It is currently the capital of French Guiana.

Both ancient and modern used cayenne therapeutically:

• For public intoxication—boil a concoction of water, corn, and pinches of cayenne pepper, and drink this brew when cool. Within a very short time the intoxicated individual will regain sobriety.
Themes of Punishment—

• Children were punished for various misbehaviors, but especially verbal transgressions, by having a pinch of cayenne placed on their tongue or on their lips.

• If corporal punishment was necessary cayenne was rubbed into the lacerations.

• Cayenne was used to punish such crimes as treason, rebellion, homicide, adultery and homosexuality, all of which were punishable by death. If the criminal were a nobleman of some high stature in Aztec society, he would be given a strong drink mixed with adequate cayenne pepper. This fermented and fiery “pulque” would work as an anesthesia prior to scheduled execution and help to minimize pain and suffering.

• The Maya would discipline unruly children by rubbing cayenne on the child’s bare skin.

Themes of Poison—
• Cayenne is an effective antidote for reversing the immediate blindness induced by eye contact with the sap of the poisonwood tree. A tiny amount of cayenne pepper was placed under each eyelid and kept there for a number of hours until vision was fully restored.

• The “Tupi” an Amazonian tribe used the cayenne pepper, crushed together with salt and eaten with a meal to prevent any indigestion.

Themes of opposites—
• The Guatemalan Maya used the leaves of the capsicum plant as a remedy for heatstroke and inflammation. Both the leaves and the pepper fruit of capsicum were applied externally for boils, abscesses, and open sores to promote quicker healing.

• Cayenne was used for upset stomach; and lower back pain. 

The ‘Trumai’ and ‘Nambicuara’ ate cayenne pepper whole for dysentery and malaria. The ‘Paressi” mixed cayenne pepper with their curare to make an efficient arrow or dart poison.

Witch doctors of the ‘Choco’ tribe sometimes discretely administered ‘pakuru-neara’ (a cardiac poison) to their enemies, and then fed the victim cayenne pepper to speed the work of the poison.

The ‘Cawahib’ used cayenne to remove leeches and ticks.

In Amazonian shamanism cayenne pepper has always occupied a unique position. Capsicums animate the spirit with man by invigorating his body. Through such reanimation, the natives believe, there can come a heightened spiritual awareness of the surrounding invisible world.

The capsicums have been mixed with any number of different plant hallucinogens to induce a “vision quest” by which a shaman can communicate more easily with the astral realm. One shaman is quoted, “it [cayenne pepper] makes my spirituality so much easier and less laborious.”
 

Part II Follows Next Blog:  http://curezone.com/blogs/m.asp?f=573&i=90

~ Dazzle


 

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