Cayenne
Capsicum annuum
Hot | Drying
Hemostatic, Antimicrobial
Blocks Substance P
Medicinal Properties of Cayenne Pepper
Cayenne is one of the most useful stimulant herbs. Traditionally, the fruit of this herb has been used medicinally and as a culinary additive. Its main effect is that it stimulates blood flow, strengthening the heart, arteries, capillaries and nerves. Taken internally, this herb acts as a general tonic, and nourishes both the circulatory and digestive systems.
Because this herb really boosts circulation, it’s often used by herbalists for conditions where there is inadequate peripheral circulation or in terms of traditional Chinese medicine, conditions of cold stagnating energies in the body.
Pain Blocking Properties
In addition to its stimulating and nourishing nature, this herb also contains a compound that has shown in modern data to block the transmission of pain signals to the brain. The neurotransmitter that sends signals of pain in your body to your brain is called “substance P“. Unlike other localized anesthetics, cayenne can block this particular neurotransmitter, but not the other ones required for sensing touch, temperature and pressure.
Cayenne Topicals
Many companies worldwide produce cayenne-infused topicals that can be used to relieve pain throughout the body. Creams and other topicals with a capsaicin content of 0.025% to 0.075% have been found effective for pain management. These products are often used by individuals with painful and itchy skin conditions such as psoriasis, shingles, diabetic neuropathy, and post-surgery pain. (Hoffman, D.) Improvement usually takes a few days of applying the cream 3x per day.
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Substance P is a neuropeptide, meaning it functions as both a neurotransmitter and a neuromodulator. It is associated with inflammatory processes and pain perception in the body. In the context of cayenne pepper, substance P is particularly relevant due to the presence of capsaicin, the active component in cayenne pepper that gives it its heat.
Capsaicin has been found to deplete substance P from nerve endings. When applied topically, capsaicin can initially cause a burning sensation, but over time it reduces the amount of substance P in the area, leading to diminished pain signals being sent to the brain. This is why capsaicin is used in certain topical pain relief creams and patches for conditions such as arthritis, muscle pain, and neuropathic pain.
By reducing the levels of substance P, capsaicin can help alleviate pain and inflammation, making cayenne pepper and its extracts valuable in both culinary and medicinal contexts.
Cayenne Biomedical Actions
Hemostatic, Antimicrobial, Stimulant, Carminative, Rubefacient
Medicinal Constituents of Cayenne
Capsaicinoids (up to 1.5%) - includes capsaicin, dihydrocapsaicin
Carotinoids - includes capsanthin, capsorubin, carotene
Steroidal Saponins - AKA capsicidins in seed and roots
Medicinal Preparations with Cayenne
Tinctures
Cayenne is used medicinally in a variety of forms, but tincture is one that is favored by many herbalists due to its shelf-life and standardization.
Ointments & Topicals
Capzasin HP ointment for arthritis is a topical creme that can be used to help reduce arthritic pain in the joints. It can be very warming, so caution if you have sensitive skin, but it effectively blocks “substance P” and reduces pain. There may be other cremes out there with superior ingredients, but this is one I know is effective.
Culinary Cayenne
Cayenne pepper is a favorite spice added to many dishes around the world to add heat to food. It’s a featured ingredient in curries, and other rice dishes as well as added to meat marinades and even beverages.
Ceremonial Cacao + Cayenne Recipe
Cacao is one of my favorite heart-centering medicinal plants and it pairs so well with cayenne for a warming and stimulating beverage. I source my cacao from guatemala via my friend Alaina who works with a woman-operated small farm that prepares the cacao the traditional way by hand.
Ingredients
1 oz (28 grams) ceremonial cacao paste
1 cup (240 ml) water or milk (milk will have a creamier texture)
1 teaspoon sweetener (such as honey, maple syrup, or coconut sugar)
A pinch of sea salt
A pinch of cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
Optional: A pinch of cinnamon or vanilla extract for added flavor
Instructions
Prepare the Cacao:
Chop or grate the ceremonial cacao paste into small pieces to help it melt evenly.
Heat the Liquid:
In a small saucepan, heat the water (or milk) over medium heat until it is hot but not boiling.
Melt the Cacao:
Add the chopped cacao paste to the hot liquid.
Stir continuously until the cacao is fully melted and the mixture is smooth.
Add Sweetener and Spices:
Stir in the sweetener of your choice, adjusting the amount to suit your taste.
Add a pinch of sea salt and cayenne pepper. Start with a small amount of cayenne and adjust according to your heat preference.
If using, add cinnamon or vanilla extract for extra flavor.
Blend (Optional):
I highly recommend blend the mixture using an immersion blender or a regular blender for 20-30 seconds for a smoother texture.
Serve:
Pour the cacao drink into your favorite mug and enjoy!
Integration Check-In
Is there anyone in your family or close circles who could see an improvement in their quality of life from including cayenne?
Think about the last time you ate a spicy food and how that made your body feel.
Hoffmann, D. (2003). Medical herbalism: The science and practice of herbal medicine. Healing Arts Press.