Cayenne Pepper Extract
Cayenne pepper, scientifically labeled as Capsicum annuum, belongs to the Solanaceae plant family, sharing kinship with other members like tomatoes, eggplants, and potatoes. Classified as a chili pepper variety, cayenne peppers exhibit a moderately hot and spicy flavor. Their close botanical relations include jalapeño and bell peppers. Within culinary landscapes, they hold significance in Southwestern American, Mexican, Cajun, and Creole cuisine. These peppers are commonly used in powdered form for seasoning and also feature whole in Asian cuisines like
Korean and Sichuan. Beyond gastronomy, cayenne pepper finds application in traditional Chinese and Ayurvedic medicines. It’s harnessed to address circulatory issues and is recognized for its active component, capsaicin, which contributes to the pepper’s spiciness. Capsaicin is frequently integrated into topical preparations for muscle and joint discomfort. In home remedies, cayenne pepper is used to alleviate coughs, congestion, and cold symptoms. Its potential extends to reducing pain and tenderness associated with osteoarthritis. The antibacterial properties of capsaicin offer protection against Streptococcus pyogenes bacteria, which leads to skin and soft tissue infections such as impetigo and cellulitis. Additionally, capsaicin stimulates the body to produce more heat, contributing to a minor metabolism boost that leads to burning slightly more calories. It activates stomach nerves that signal for defensive mechanisms against injuries. The pepper also aids digestion by promoting increased production of digestive fluids and facilitating enzyme transport to the stomach. Furthermore, it provides an added layer of stomach protecting against infections. Research suggests that capsaicin exhibits the ability to slow cancer cell growth and potentially eliminate certain types of cancer cells, including those associated with prostate, skin, and pancreatic cancer.