Where does cayenne pepper grow? Useful properties and uses of cayenne pepper. How to replace cayenne pepper in recipes

Cayenne pepper is a perennial shrub plant belonging to the Solanaceae class. Its fruits have a bitter-spicy aroma and a pronounced pungent taste. The green pods of the plant are known as “peperoni”, and the ripe ones (yellow, red, brown) are called “chili”.

Cayenne pepper is one of the most popular spices in cooking, which is used to add a spicy bitterness to dishes and prevent food spoilage (as a preservative). Along with this, the burning fruits are used in medicinal purposes, as a powerful blood stimulating and antibacterial agent (due to the presence of capsaicin alkaloid).

General information

The homeland of cayenne pepper is South India and the island of Java. The discoverers of the nightshade plant were members of the expedition of Christopher Columbus (in particular, Dr. Diego Alvarez Canca). The vegetable owes its name to the port city of Cayenne (northern French Guiana), from where it was exported by a ship's doctor to Spain (in 1493).

Currently, the plant is cultivated in almost all tropical countries: Thailand, India, Vietnam, Brazil, Colombia, Indonesia, Guiana. Along with this, the vegetable is grown in the southern regions of the Russian Federation.

The fruiting period of pepper is August-October. The length of its pods varies from 0.5 to 1.5 cm. The fruits are most often colored yellow, green, red or brown.

The characteristic aroma of the plant is given by the phenolic compound capsaicin, contained in the seeds, skin and membranes of the pod. Interestingly, the bitter-spicy taste of the vegetable is felt even when strongly diluted in water (1 g of fruit per 10,000 liters of liquid). The heat of capsicums is determined in units of spiciness on the Scoville scale. The average “hotness” of a cayenne vegetable is 40,000-50,000 units.

You need to eat because...

The medicinal properties of cayenne pepper are due to the presence of large amounts of capsaicin and vitamin C in its composition.

These substances have a powerful blood-stimulating, anti-inflammatory and regenerating effect on the body.

The main effects of the healing alkaloid:

1. Increases the speed of food digestion, accelerates the burning of fatty tissue, reduces gas formation (due to stimulation of the secretory function of the pancreas).
2. Suppresses the growth of pathogenic flora, enhances.
3. , warns heart attack and fainting (“effect” of nitroglycerin).
4. Interferes with the walls of arteries, prevents the formation of blood clots, and prevents platelets from sticking together.
5. Normalizes the evacuation function of the gallbladder.
6. Increases potency, stimulates blood flow to the reproductive organs.
7. Accelerates the disposal of toxic substances from the rectum.
8. Stimulates the synthesis of endorphins (pleasure hormones), improves conductivity nerve impulses in the brain.
9. Strengthens the immune system, increases sweating (during colds), accelerates discharge (reducing swelling of the nasal mucosa).
10. Normalizes menstrual cycle, increases female libido.
11. Relieves pain from arthritis, gout, joint swelling.
12. Cups toothache, stops the destruction of enamel, disinfects wounds (when used externally).
13. Inhibits cell mutation, slows tumor growth (due to the destruction of mitochondria of malignant cells).
14. Normalizes the tone of the vascular wall, stabilizes blood pressure.
15. Stimulates intestinal motility.
16. Prevents a rise in blood levels, prolongs the feeling of fullness.
17. Relaxes smooth muscles.

Remember, the product in large quantities is hazardous to health. Abuse of cayenne pepper can lead to burns of the gastric mucosa, acute digestive disorders, and inflammation of the kidneys and liver.

In addition, the vegetable is consumed with caution when:

• strong emotional arousal;
• exacerbation of gastrointestinal diseases (especially those caused by the Helicobacter bacterium);
• tendency to seizures (including epileptic);
• allergic reactions;
• prolonged cold;
• hypertension.

Chemical composition

In addition to capsaicin and ascorbic acid, the burning pods contain alkaloids, vitamins, minerals, glycosides, essential oils, saponins and tannins.

Table No. 2 " Chemical composition cayenne pepper"

Name	Concentration of nutrients in 100 grams of chili fruit, milligrams
Vitamins
	143,7
	10,9
	1,5
	1,24
	0,69
	0,5
	0,2
	0,09
	0,07
	0,023
	0,014
	322,0
	43,0
	23,0
	14,0
	9,0
	1,03
	0,26
	0,19
	0,13
	0,0005

The energy value of 100 grams of chili fruit is 40 kilocalories.

Preparation

Cayenne pepper is one of the most popular spices all over the world (especially in Asian countries). Chili fruits are constant “companions” of Mexican, Indian and Caribbean cuisines. In cooking, the product is used both fresh and freeze-dried. Fresh chili pods are used mainly in pickles, marinades and first courses, and dried (ground) ones are used in meat, legumes and vegetable side dishes. Pepper is much less suitable for preparing fish, egg and dairy dishes.

Remember, the spiciness of an exotic vegetable directly depends on its size and color. The smaller and redder it is, the more “hot” its taste.

Considering that cayenne pepper is a spice and not a seasoning, it should be added during the cooking process (and not after cooking). In order not to make a mistake with the dose, the vegetable is added to the dish in small portions (starting with half a small pod or pinch). Before serving food, the pepper pods are pulled out.

Chili fruits are sold mainly in crushed form (powder). However, if desired, the spice can be easily prepared with your own hands. To do this, the exotic vegetable is dried and then ground into powder. If necessary, internal membranes, seeds and skin are removed from fresh pods (to reduce bitterness).

Ground pepper goes well with coriander, garlic, basil, bay leaf and savory. In addition, it is included in many sauces, spicy mixtures, adjika and ketchups (“Chili”, “Curry”, “Tabasco”).

Helpful Tips:

1. Cayenne pepper is added to the dish 10 minutes before cooking in moderate quantities. If spices are used incorrectly, food can irritate the gastric mucosa.
2. The pods of the hot vegetable should not be placed in boiling oil, since under the influence of fat they lose color and acquire a rich bitter taste.
3. You should “pepper” the dish with caution, as the food can turn out to be very hot.
4. When cutting peppers, wash your hands often with soap or wear rubber gloves. At the same time, do not touch your face, especially your eyes, with dirty hands, otherwise you may get burns.
5. If pepper gets on the mucous membranes of the body, you should immediately rinse them with warm water.
6. Before adding to the dish, pepper (ground) is combined with a small portion of apple juice.
7. Fresh chili pods are stored in the refrigerator in paper bags. The shelf life of unwashed vegetables is 6-7 days. Freeze-dried fruits (whole or ground) are stored at room temperature in a tightly sealed container (away from sun rays). The shelf life of the dried product is 1-1.5 years. Homemade spice mixtures are best stored in the freezer.
8. Remove the skin from the fruit after heat treatment product (to reduce the complexity of the process).
9. When choosing fresh pods, pay attention to their appearance. High-quality chili fruits have thick, bright skin without wrinkled areas or dark spots.
10. To reduce the burning sensation in the mouth (in case of overdose), drink 200 ml of milk, and then eat a slice or boiled milk.

Interestingly, in Indonesia cayenne pepper is called “lombok”, in Mexico – “ancho”, in Africa – “pili-pili”.

ethnoscience

To prepare medicinal potions, chili fruits with a pungency value of at least 40,000 units (and preferably 60,000) are used.

Top 5 proven recipes:

1. Warming cold remedy. Active ingredients (dry): ground cayenne pepper (15 g), sage (8 g), parsley (8 g), cloves (5 g), (5 g), (5 g). The indicated ingredients are poured into 500 ml of wine vinegar and left for 14 days in a dark place (shaking once a day). After 2 weeks, the drug is filtered and put in the refrigerator.

This remedy is used for flu-like ailments, chills, and the first symptoms of a cold (sore throat, nasal congestion, aching joints).

Dosage regimen: dissolve 5 ml of infusion in 200 ml of water, take three times a day (after meals). This composition (diluted) can be used to rinse the nose and mouth.

1. Anticonvulsant spasmodic composition. Prepare the following ingredients: olive oil (300 ml), mustard powder (30 g), cayenne pepper (25 g), (15 g), fresh ginger root (10 g). The dry ingredients are poured with vegetable fat and then simmered in a water bath for 2-3 hours. Take the solution warm, 5 ml twice a day.

This folk remedy eliminates smooth muscle spasms, “warms” frozen ligaments, increases blood circulation, and relieves fever.

1. Infusion to improve appetite. The composition is prepared from fresh cayenne pepper fruits (crushed). To do this, 25 g of raw material is poured into 200 ml and left in a dark place for 10 days. The mixture is consumed three times a day, 0.5-1 ml (10-15 drops).

Alcohol tincture is used to enhance the secretion of gastric juice, increase potency, and improve brain function.

1. Pepper rub solution. To create a healing mixture, dry raw materials are used: 100 g of peel black radish, 80 g horseradish leaf, 50 g partitions walnut, 40 g chili pepper. These components are poured into 500 ml of triple cologne and infused for 7-9 days.

The composition is used for external rubbing of problem areas with cervical myositis, neuralgia, radiculitis, sciatica, rheumatism, hypothermia, “chest” cough, back pain. Before use, the infusion is combined with vegetable oil m (to avoid burns).

1. Drink for cleaning blood vessels. The drug contains fresh ingredients: horseradish leaves (50 g), walnut partitions (30 g), pine nut shells (30 g), cayenne pepper (15 g). All components are poured into 500 ml and left for 10 days in a warm place. The composition is taken 2 ml (30 drops) twice a day for a month.

For cellulite

Cayenne pepper is actively used in cosmetic products (store-bought and homemade) designed to sculpt the figure and reduce the appearance of cellulite.

Effects of using “burning” infusions:

• rush of blood to problem areas;
• eliminating lymph stagnation;
• acceleration of fat tissue burning;
• increasing the permeability of cell membranes to the penetration of nutritional components;
• increasing the rate of elimination of cellular toxins and waste.

To restore healthy skin appearance Cayenne pepper is used in masks, creams, scrubs and hot wraps. These products are easy to make at home, without resorting to the services of salon specialists.

Scheme of the wrapping procedure:

1. Prepare a cosmetic mixture. Before the first wrap, test the composition on the elbow or wrist (15-20 minutes) for the presence allergic reaction on the product.
2. Apply the mixture in a thin layer to clean, steamed skin (problem area).
3. Wrap the body in film plastic bag or foil.
4. Wrap a wool scarf or terry towel over the film.
5. Leave the mixture on the body for 10-20 minutes (depending on skin reaction).
6. Rinse off the composition with warm water, moisturize the reddened dermis with cream (preferably anti-cellulite).

To reduce the appearance of cellulite, perform at least 10 wrap sessions. The frequency of application of the procedure is 1-2 times a week.

Remember, procedures using cayenne pepper are contraindicated for those with sensitive skin.

Recipes for cosmetic mixtures for pepper wraps

1. Detoxifying blood stimulating composition. Ingredients: coffee grounds (60 g), blue or black cosmetic clay (45 g), water (20 ml), dry cayenne pepper (2.5 g). These components are connected to each other and then rubbed into problem areas with massaging movements.
2. Softening tonic mixture. To create a pepper tincture you will need: (100 ml), olive oil (30 ml), (10 ml), ground chili pepper (5 g), chopped nutmeg(5 g), essential oil or (0.5 ml, 10 drops). The composition is thoroughly mixed, and then heated in a water bath for 2-3 minutes, applied to the problem area.
3. Warming pepper mask. Combine 50 ml olive or, 45 g powder, 10 g ground chili. Rub the mask intensively into problem areas.
4. Nourishing anti-cellulite mixture. Ingredients: milk (200 ml), dark chocolate (100 g), cayenne pepper (3 g). The cocoa product is grated and then added to boiling milk (along with pepper). The mixture is cooled to a temperature of 37-40 degrees and then used for wraps.
5. Alcohol lymphatic drainage scrub. Mix ground red and black pepper powder in equal proportions. Dilute the dry mixture with vodka until a homogeneous thick suspension is formed and apply to the problematic dermis. Considering that the composition has a powerful blood-stimulating effect, if there is a strong burning sensation, it should be immediately washed off with water to avoid getting burned.

Along with pepper wraps, it is advisable to use creams based on it (store-bought or homemade). Method of preparation: combine moisturizing cream (50 ml) and a pinch of hot seasoning (1.5 g), leave for 2-3 days in the refrigerator. Rub pepper cream daily into problem areas. After 10-15 minutes, rinse off the product with warm water.

Contraindications to the use of burning wraps:

• thrombophelitis;
• phlebeurysm;
• damage to the skin (including inflammation);
• increased skin sensitivity;
• pregnancy, lactation;
• dysfunction of the genital organs;
• tendency to rashes and irritations;
• kidney pathologies;
• menstruation.

If after hot wraps the skin “burns” for 2-3 hours, the amount of the burning component is halved. If discomfort persists, the procedure should be discontinued.

Pickling recipes for the winter

When choosing peppers for home canning, it is better to give preference to dense, thick-skinned fruits without defects, damage or stains. In addition, to increase the attractiveness of pickles, it is advisable to purchase pods of different colors.

Cayenne pepper in honey marinade

Place peppers, spices and chopped herbs (up to the shoulders) in sterilized jars.

Prepare the marinade. Combine sugar, salt, honey and water. Bring the mixture to a boil.

Pour boiling brine over the pepper. Leave the pickle in the marinade for 5-7 minutes.

Pour the brine into the pan and return to a boil.

Pour the marinade over the exotic fruits a second time.

Add vinegar to the pepper mixture.

Close the jars with sterilized lids (tin or screw caps).

Cooled pickles can be stored at room temperature.

Cayenne pepper in tomato sauce

Components:

• cayenne pepper – 500 g;
• olive oil – 100 ml;
• tomatoes – 500 g;
• salt – 20 g;
• sugar – 10 g.

Cooking principle:

1. Prepare the pepper for processing (rinse, remove stems, chop).
2. Fry the crushed product over low heat (10-15 minutes). If necessary, remove the peel and seeds from the fruit (to reduce the pungency of the pickle).
3. Grate the tomatoes.
4. Boil the tomato puree for 15-20 minutes (until the volume is reduced by half).
5. Combine tomatoes with sugar and salt.
6. Place the pepper in sterile jars and then pour into them tomato sauce(boiling).
7. Seal the jars with lids.

Adjika from hot pepper

Ingredients:

• chili pepper (fresh) – 900 g;
• garlic (fresh) – 100 g;
• coriander (ground) – 30 g;
• vinegar (apple or wine) – ml;
• bell pepper (fresh) – 700 g;
• salt – 20 g.

Cooking diagram:

1. Remove seeds and stems from peppers (bell and cayenne).
2. Add garlic and coriander to the vegetables.
3. Grind the spicy-pepper mixture in a blender or meat grinder.
4. Combine the resulting mass with vinegar and salt.
5. Place the adjika into sterile jars and seal with a lid.

Conclusion

Cayenne pepper is a spicy exotic vegetable used for culinary, medicinal and cosmetic purposes.

Chili fruits are traditional components of Caribbean, Indian and Mexican cuisine. They are added to soups, borscht, pickles, rice and meat side dishes, vegetable salads, chocolate desserts, fermented milk drinks (fresh or freeze-dried). In addition, the hot product is added to almost all spicy pickles, marinades, sauces and dressings.

Cayenne pepper goes well with other spices: garlic, coriander, basil, cardamom, savory and cinnamon. To give the dish a spicy bitterness, the product is added to the food 7-10 minutes before cooking (in small portions).

In addition to its subtle spicy taste, cayenne pepper has nutritious and medicinal properties. The pharmacological value of the product is due to the presence of a phenolic compound in its composition - capsaicin. This substance has powerful blood-stimulating, lymphatic drainage, bactericidal, regenerating, immunomodulatory and anti-inflammatory properties on the body.

Cayenne pepper can enhance the taste of many dishes and give dishes a particularly piquant aroma. Not everyone knows that this leguminous vegetable has many healing qualities. In order for the use of pepper for therapeutic and prophylactic purposes to give extremely positive results, you need to familiarize yourself in detail with its features, learn about its healing qualities, and contraindications for use. The review below with photos will certainly be useful for those who are actively interested in this representative of the Solanaceae family.

• fatty vegetable oils;
• carotenoids;
• steroid saponins;
• piperidine, haficine.

Attention! During the first week, the amount of vitamin C contained in cut pepper pods increases. This phenomenon is considered rare; it is not observed in most plants.

Healing properties

Eating hot pepper makes it possible to improve the condition and functioning of the digestive organs and increase immunity. The spice has the ability to relieve pain and relieve inflammation. For this reason, the spice often serves as an active component of healing ointments. Capsacin prevents pain signals from reaching the brain, which alleviates joint, muscle, lumbar, and postoperative pain. Hot peppers can be used as a remedy to help cure a whole range of ailments:

Use in folk medicine

• remove excess cholesterol from the blood;
• normalize blood pressure;
• increase potency;
• relieve the symptoms of psoriasis (relieve itching, peeling of the skin);
• quickly heal infectious diseases;
• normalize the functioning of the genitourinary system;
• destroy the fungus;
• restore the body's defenses;
• reduce pain during menstruation, effectively normalize the cycle;
• get rid of extra pounds.

Important! In cooking, it is practiced to use crushed pepper as a seasoning for meat and fish dishes. It can be included in various sauces.

Hot peppers used in weight loss programs are not able to directly affect fat deposits. Its function is to accelerate metabolic processes, improve food absorption, stimulate intestinal motility, and increase energy consumption. In powder form, it serves as a seasoning for consumed dishes, and wraps help reduce the volume of fatty tissue, help increase the elasticity of the skin and muscle tone.

Review of contraindications

• nervous disorders;
• periodic convulsions, epileptic seizures;
• pressure surges;
• worsened intestinal and stomach ailments.

Preparations with the spice are prohibited from being used externally by people with hypersensitive skin, varicose veins, a tendency to allergic reactions, pregnant women, and nursing mothers.

Attention! A whole pod eaten can severely burn the stomach lining, lead to ulcers, and negatively affect the liver and kidneys.

Consuming this valuable spice in reasonable doses will help get rid of many ailments, will allow you to maintain good health for years to come, and will be the key to interesting taste experiments for true gourmets.

How do you use cayenne pepper?

Cayenne pepper: video

Cayenne pepper (Capsicum cayenne) is one of the varieties of hot peppers, differing from other varieties in size, color and pungency. When unripe it is green or purple, and when mature it is white, yellow, red, purple and black. The shape of the fruit varies from small and round, like a cherry, 0.5 cm in size, to oblong, 1.5 cm long. Pepper is also called “chili”, but this name is applied in cooking and trade to all highly hot varieties of hot red pepper. Finds from Peruvian burials indicate that the plant’s birthplace is tropical America, but it is grown as a crop in India, Mexico, Thailand and many other countries.

What benefits or possible harm does cayenne pepper provide to our body?

The fruits of red cayenne pepper contain capsaicin, which is what gives it its spicy and fiery taste, but despite this, it has many beneficial properties, and the more of it there is in the pepper, the healthier it is. On the Scoville heat unit scale, cayenne pepper ranks at 40,000 units, while paprika is only 1 unit.

Only cayenne pepper, when entering the human body, has a rather delicate effect on thermoreceptors and does not expand blood vessels. Because of this unique property this hot pepper is widely used in traditional and folk medicine to eliminate pain syndromes and is included in many ointments and creams, since other varieties are not so effective.

Cayenne pepper is very often used in cooking, it is one of the most popular ingredients in Mexican, Oriental and African cuisine, it helps to diversify and enhance the taste and aroma of many dishes. There are many recipes with chili pepper; it is added not only to fish and meat dishes, but also to pepper eggs, cheese, vegetables, beans, sauces, flour, crackers, and by combining a mixture of peppers with olive oil What are the benefits of olive oil and what harm can it cause to our health. 11 incredibly useful properties olive oil for the body. as well as contraindications to its use. You can dress any, even the most sophisticated salad.

Let's talk in more detail about all the beneficial properties of cayenne pepper and its contraindications.

Red pepper fruits contain starch (0.3 g), dietary fiber (1.7 g) and ash (0.2), the remaining 75% is water. They contain vitamins: A (beta-carotene), B1 (thiamine), B2 (riboflavin), B3 (PP), PP (niacin), B6 ​​(pyrodoxine), B9 ( folic acid), C (ascorbic acid) and E (alpha tocopherol), as well as phosphorus, iron, sodium, potassium, calcium and magnesium.

Cayenne Pepper - 12 Health Benefits

1. Eliminates rheumatic pain due to arthritis

   Cayenne pepper is successfully used to relieve rheumatic pain in arthritis and other osteoarticular diseases. In the treatment of diseases, ointments, gels and creams are used, which necessarily include hot pepper. They not only relieve pain, but also relieve inflammation from painful areas and joints.

2. Normalizes the functioning of the gastrointestinal tract

   Regular use of cayenne pepper as a spice helps normalize the functioning of the stomach, relieves pain in case of overeating, eliminates bloating and even intestinal spasms. Chinese medicine encourages the consumption of red hot pepper and claims that pepper improves digestion, stimulates the secretion of gastric juice and saliva, and this significantly reduces the development of many gastrointestinal diseases.

3. Helps in treating sore throat

   Traditional medicine claims that you can gargle with water mixed with cayenne pepper if a sore throat develops, but since this is not a very pleasant procedure, which can cause irritation if you overdose on pepper, many people refuse this treatment.

4. Improves blood circulation

   When any part of the body becomes ill, an inflammatory process usually develops and blood flow deteriorates. The use of red pepper in treatment will help stimulate blood flow to the sore spot, which helps remove toxins and deliver all the beneficial substances necessary for recovery.

5. Helps fight colds

   Capsaicin contained in hot peppers stimulates secretion, which helps clear mucus from the nose and lungs and causes sweating, which is very necessary for colds. In Indian villages, for many illnesses, “chili” is always added to food or drinks, making them quite spicy, and tea mixed with cayenne pepper is drunk to treat colds or flu.

6. Heart diseases

   Many scientific studies prove that cayenne pepper extract taken orally can help a patient stop a heart attack. Spicy foods help to significantly reduce cholesterol levels in the blood and dissolve fibrin, which contributes to the formation of blood clots, as well as reduce triglyceride levels What are triglycerides and what role do they play in the body? Correct levels and methods of lowering blood triglycerides through medical and folk remedies .

7. Treats headaches

   Ayurveda and non-traditional ethnoscience claims that the smell of cayenne pepper blossoms can cure headaches. If the plant is near the bush during flowering, the pain will subside.

8. Makes breathing easier

   Cayenne pepper is a source of beta-carotene, which is very beneficial for lung diseases and significantly reduces severe asthma symptoms.

9. Strengthens immunity

   Vitamin A, known as beta-carotene, found in cayenne pepper protects the body from invading pathogens by promoting healthy mucous membranes in the nasal passage, lungs and urinary tract, thereby providing immunity against many infections.

10. Cayenne pepper for weight loss

    Hot red pepper added to food promotes weight loss by improving digestion, it significantly reduces increased appetite, which eliminates the ineffective absorption of excess food. When eating spicy or spicy food Is eating a lot of spicy food harmful to the stomach and intestines? All about the benefits for the body, side effects and contraindications from the results of scientific research and doctors' opinions. a person tends to drink a lot of water and this also helps in weight loss.

11. Prevents cancer development

    Beta-carotene, like many other beneficial components contained in capsicum, works as an excellent antioxidant that prevents many diseases caused by free radicals, such as atherosclerosis and even cancer.

12. Fights germs

    Cayenne pepper has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, beneficially affecting the entire body. Thanks to its therapeutic effect, the functioning of the liver and biliary tract improves; pepper counteracts fungal diseases and other harmful microorganisms. It is very useful for men, as it significantly improves potency.

Cayenne pepper - harm and contraindications

Despite the encouraging prospects of getting rid of many diseases and especially from extra pounds with cayenne pepper, you need to be careful, as it can bring not only benefits, but also harm. Excessive indulgence in spicy dishes is harmful, and in case of some diseases, it is better to completely exclude hot peppers from the diet. Cayenne pepper is harmful for gastritis, colitis, ulcers and other acute equally dangerous diseases of the digestive system.

Cayenne pepper is rightfully considered the king among medicinal plants. It is distinguished from other varieties by a wide range of uses for therapeutic and prophylactic purposes. To understand how best to use it in different areas without harm to health, you need to know its features, healing properties and possible harm.

What it is?

Cayenne pepper belongs to the Solanaceae family of perennials. It owes its name to the port city of Cayenne. This is the so-called capsicum cayenne, which the British call chili because of its color. In our country, it is usually called red capsicum, although sometimes you can hear the name “perroni”, “Brazilian” or “Indian”. It looks like classic chili. Tropical America is considered to be the birthplace of this vegetable, although it is grown as a crop in South India, as well as Mexico and Thailand.

It is a leguminous vegetable with different colors depending on the variety. For example, as it ripens, it changes color from greenish and light purple to red, whitish and purple. The shape of the fruit can be not only heart-shaped and oblong: in addition, it can be round, reminiscent of cherry and olive fruits.

Cayenne pepper is now considered a popular spice in a variety of traditional dishes. Compared to other varieties of pepper, it is more hot; the diameter of mature fruits can vary from 0.5 to 1.5 cm or more. This vegetable is considered one of the best among analogues; the parameters of the bush, depending on the variety, can be up to 1 meter in height. Due to its composition, cayenne pepper is used not only in cooking, but for cosmetic purposes, dietetics, and folk medicine.

The name cayenne pepper, as a type of chili, may not be entirely accurate. This is usually the name given to all the hottest varieties of pepper. However, there is still a difference, although it is small. Cayenne pepper fruits always change color when ripe; they do not remain green. Its size, like the seeds, is smaller, and the peppercorns themselves are often not only red, but also light orange.

It is quite hot and pungent, and when ground it has a light orange tint, sometimes yellowish or gray-yellow. It differs in cost and useful properties. Its effect on the body is more pronounced, and often under its name in stores there can be a mixture of hot peppers or chili with various additives.

Chemical composition

Cayenne pepper fruits contain a wide range of components, including nutrients and antioxidants. For example, it contains fiber, protein, B vitamins (thiamine, pyrodoxine, folic acid), as well as A, E, K, manganese, potassium and riboflavin. The hotness of pepper is explained by the presence of the active substance capsaicin in it. It is he who is responsible for the healing effect inherent in this vegetable.

The amount of capsaicin may vary. According to the Scoville heat scale, its concentration is 40,000 units, while the usual paprika has only 1 unit. In addition to capsaicin, cayenne pepper also contains other alkaloids: chavicine and piperidine.

In addition, the vegetable contains esters and fatty oils. It contains more vitamin C than oranges; it also contains calcium and iron. This pepper is characterized by the ability to enhance the effects of other medicinal plants on the body. Due to the sulfur contained in red pepper, it has a beneficial effect on the health of the body. It is useful against a number of diseases and can be used in in different forms(raw, dried, as an infusion or decoction).

Healing properties

Today, the benefits of this vegetable are a scientifically proven fact. Scientists have been able to establish a whole list of its beneficial qualities. For example, it is relevant for arthritis, helps eliminate painful sensations rheumatic in nature. In addition, it can be used in case of diseases of bones and joints, and gout.

Cayenne pepper has different types of effects on the human body, namely:

• antibacterial;
• antiviral;
• disinfectant;
• regenerative;
• antitumor;
• antimicrobial;
• secretory;
• immunomodulatory;
• blood purifying;
• antifungal.

Along with the ability to relieve pain, it relieves inflammation in places of pain. Therefore, cayenne pepper is often an active ingredient medicinal ointments and creams. Due to capsaicin, which prevents pain signals from entering the brain, the vegetable is used to reduce joint, lumbar and muscle pain. It is effective in the postoperative period, as well as for pain associated with the lesion. nervous system.

At correct use When eaten, it can improve the functioning of the gastrointestinal tract. In addition to the fact that it reduces discomfort when overeating, relieves bloating, improves metabolism. It is eaten for intestinal spasms. It is a catalyst for the production of gastric juice, as well as saliva, necessary for the normal functioning of the digestive system.

This product not only speeds up metabolism and increases brain activity. It is considered one of the strongest antioxidants that has a great effect on cancer cells. It is able to suppress the growth and development of tumors. Other beneficial properties include the ability to suppress the growth of adipose tissue. For this reason, it is added to preparations with anti-cellulite effect.

Cayenne pepper is successfully used for colds, ARVI, flu, and sinusitis. It is an effective remedy for nasal congestion and can relieve the lungs of accumulated mucus. It should also be noted that red pepper has the ability to regulate body temperature. For example, it may reduce the risk of hypothermia associated with poor circulation. For this reason, this product is used for atony of the limbs.

Due to its ability to normalize blood flow, cayenne pepper is used when necessary to stimulate blood flow to sore areas of the body. It can remove toxins and deliver essential nutrients. In addition, it is quite effective for:

• cleansing blood from cholesterol;
• normalization of blood pressure;
• enhancing potency;
• alleviating the symptoms of psoriasis, relieving itching and peeling of the skin;
• combating infectious diseases;
• normalization of the genitourinary system;
• destruction of fungal microorganisms;
• recovery protective forces body;
• reducing pain during menstruation and normalizing the cycle;
• fight against excess weight.

It is impossible not to mention the most valuable properties of cayenne pepper for the skin and oral cavity. Regular and correct use of the vegetable has a beneficial effect on the health of curls. It promotes their strengthening, active growth and healthy shine. In addition, consuming pepper in measured quantities also affects the health of the nail plates, as a result of which they stop breaking and become stronger.

Few people know, but red pepper, in addition to other useful qualities, prevents caries. This is explained by the stimulation of salivation, due to which oral cavity gets rid of many microorganisms. Cayenne pepper prevents the destruction of enamel and dulls toothache. In addition, it reduces the feeling of hunger, which is why it is actively used for weight loss.

It can be used when diabetes mellitus, migraines and diseases of the cardiovascular system. According to scientific research, pepper extract taken orally may help prevent heart attack. It dissolves fibrin, therefore it prevents thrombosis.

Other properties include the ability of red hot pepper to cure headaches, ease breathing, relieve coughing attacks, as well as asthma.

Contraindications

Along with the many advantages of cayenne pepper and its medicinal properties, there are cases when its use is impossible. If this aspect is ignored, instead of obvious benefit and treatment, it can cause significant harm to the human body. For example, it is harmless in small quantities, but if consumed excessively, it will cause a stomach ache and make you feel worse. Excessive indulgence in spicy dishes is not only undesirable, but also unacceptable for diseases such as gastritis, colitis, stomach ulcers and other disorders of the digestive system.

Hot peppers should not be consumed by those who have kidney or liver diseases, or nervous system disorders. In addition, it is worth thinking about contraindications for external use for those who have special sensitive skin, since pepper can become an irritant.

Any use of cayenne pepper is unacceptable in case of individual intolerance, as well as any manifestation of an allergic reaction. The prohibition of use also applies to pregnant and lactating women.

Regarding the first, it is worth noting that this is not always harmless for the developing fetus. As for nursing mothers, they should know: consuming cayenne pepper reduces the production of breast milk. Despite the ability of the vegetable to heal wounds with a minimal trace in the form of a scar, it is contraindicated for easily excitable people and those who have convulsions, as well as epileptic seizures. You can’t eat it every day, and even several times a day. This will not give positive dynamics, but on the contrary, will negatively affect the condition of the intestines and digestive organs.

The use of pepper for treatment should be a course and nothing more. Pepper should not be eaten if this moment the person is taking blood thinning medications. Ignoring this fact may lead to bleeding. It is also important to take into account the fact that cayenne pepper should not be consumed if a person is taking inhibitors that save him from high blood pressure.

Application

Today, in addition to traditional fresh pepper, you can find cayenne pepper on sale in the form of powder or capsules. Can be used for medicinal purposes different type vegetable. Typically, those who cannot consume it in powder form buy capsules.

More often they try to add the spice to main dishes; you can also purchase or prepare its alcohol tincture or hot drink at home.

The method of use depends on the type of disease present and the principle of exposure. Capsules are taken with warm water. Sometimes you buy an alcohol tincture at a pharmacy, or you mix the alcohol with ground pepper yourself, infuse it for two days, and then take it half an hour before meals. The hot drink is prepared by combining ground red pepper with ginger, lemon juice, honey and boiled water. According to the preparation rules, the mixture is boiled for two minutes, and then taken half a glass before meals.

In cooking

Cayenne pepper can be consumed as a separate product or together with other spices. It is not only dried and crushed, but can also be supplemented with vegetable oil, which will reveal its taste properties to the maximum extent. It is sprinkled on seafood (for example, fish, oysters, crabs). It is often used as an additive to hot soups and various stews, and complements baked goods and desserts.

In addition, red pepper is added to:

• hot chocolate with cinnamon;
• egg soufflés, omelettes and salads;
• meat marinades;
• vegetable salads.

In this case, just a drop of spices is added so as not to provoke an allergic reaction or to initially identify the presence or absence of individual intolerance. You cannot constantly increase the dosage of pepper. This will lead to an excess of spice and negative consequences. In addition, the therapeutic and prophylactic effect of such use will be reduced, as will the benefits to the body.

To improve digestion, you can add pepper powder to the breading mixture and mix with vegetable oil. To fully experience the aroma and taste of pepper, it is added to dishes that do not require heat treatment. At the same time, they try to add just a little spice to reveal its spicy aroma and fiery taste.

In order not to burden the digestive system, try not to mix too many spices in one dish.

For treatment

Pepper is used for medicinal purposes in different ways. This depends on the desired effect, as well as the specific focus of the pepper-based product.

For example, you can speed up recovery from colds by mixing a pinch of pepper powder with vodka or warm milk. Usually, after drinking such a mixture, a person sweats, so in addition to the composition itself, to get rid of a cold, you also need to cover yourself well.

If you need to cleanse the body, pepper is used together with honey and oil in the ratio of one teaspoon of pepper per 0.250 g of oil and 0.1 kg of honey. This mixture should be consumed twice or thrice a day, not exceeding a dosage of 1-2 teaspoons.

When muscle pain becomes intolerable, as well as for arthritis, neuralgia, rheumatism and radiculitis, prepare pepper-based oil. For this, they try to use vegetable oil and fresh pepper powder. According to the recipe, take no more than 30 g of pepper per glass of oil, after which it is put in a dark and cool place for 2 weeks to infuse. The mixture is filtered before use.

A tincture that can be used to restore potency and normal brain function is prepared with vodka. According to the existing recipe, take 25 g of ground spice powder per glass of vodka and leave for at least two weeks. It is recommended to drink it drops during meals. As a rule, the maximum dosage in this case should not exceed 20 drops.

A similar recipe can be used to combat excess weight. However, in order to burn excess fat, you need to take only 15 drops and dissolve them in half a glass of water. You need to drink this liquid half an hour before eating.

One of effective means for weight loss, a recipe with the addition of pepper is considered green tea with honey.

Easy to add seasoning to different dishes will increase blood flow in the genital area. A course of cayenne pepper will make them more sensitive, which will affect the libido of both sexes. This spice is eaten for severe pain in the uterus and sprinkled on food when it is necessary to remove excess moisture from the body, as indicated by swelling. In these cases, you need very little pepper.

When you need to normalize your blood pressure, just dissolve a pinch of pepper in water. According to reviews from those who have tried this method, the measure is effective, but it does not replace treatment. In addition, you can add pepper to rubbing ointments.

In cosmetology

For cosmetic purposes, pepper from the city of Cayenne is often used externally, although its use as a seasoning also has a beneficial effect on the condition of the skin and hair. For example, in the fight against baldness, pepper is mixed with salt, applied to the roots of the hair and covered with a towel. Such massage manipulations help activate the blood circulation of skin cells. At the same time, beneficial substances are supplied to each hair follicle, due to which the hair strengthens and becomes more resistant to negative environmental factors.

In cosmetology, spice can be added to cream, scrub, mask, and it is also used for anti-cellulite wraps, treating problem areas of the body.

As a rule, such useful procedures allow you to restore lost elasticity to the skin, making it firm and toned. At the same time, muscle tone increases and a certain part of the fat layer burns. However, such procedures should be carried out with caution, since pepper can burn the skin with prolonged exposure.

For wraps, take a pinch of powdered pepper, 40 g of cosmetic clay, about the same amount of honey and a little water. First, the clay is combined with water to the consistency of thick sour cream. Then honey and pepper are added to the mass, heated in a water bath. The mixture is applied warm to problem areas of the body (stomach, thighs, buttocks). In this case, the composition should be applied to unsteamed skin, wrapping it with film and leaving it on the body for no more than 20-25 minutes.

Burdock oil is often added to the powder and heated in a water bath, making a warming hair mask. If there is no allergic reaction, it is left for 15 minutes, after which it is washed off with shampoo and warm running water.

In dietetics

For dietary purposes, cayenne pepper is used when it is necessary to lose excess weight. It accelerates metabolic processes due to the thermogenic substance, burning excess calories. It is important to rely not only on beneficial features Spices: It is important to eat right. It is important to consider that the effect of pepper on the body is short-term.

You should not place the entire burden solely on the spice, since you need to control all the food you eat at the same time. Indeed, everything a person eats along with the spice will be eliminated from the body much faster. At the same time, it will get rid of toxins and toxic substances. However, in this case, dietetics involves the use of other active substances.

Here, a more convenient type of use is capsules, which are used strictly according to the course regimen. As a rule, take no more than three capsules per day after meals. This allows the body to more easily absorb and digest food. But despite great benefit in dietetics, this treatment can only be prescribed by a doctor.

To make the effect more pronounced, you need to drink as much liquid as possible while consuming the spice. First, you can drink a glass of lightly salted water before meals. Before lunch, you can drink plain water without any additives. Then add a little pepper to the water.

In this case, the norm is negotiated individually with a nutritionist and may vary.

Some people drink liquid with pepper before going to bed. However, for this they use green tea rather than black tea, after which a slight burning sensation is felt. You should not add pepper to black tea because it instantly reduces its effectiveness. As a rule, the course of treatment does not exceed 5 days. Moreover, if any by-effect, the pepper diet is immediately stopped.

Dietary intake is relevant not only if you are overweight, but also if you have certain diseases. Sometimes it is consumed with coffee, although this is only possible if the person does not have cardiovascular diseases. When extra pounds are a real problem, cayenne pepper is added to steamed food.

In order for the effect of using hot red pepper to be pronounced, it is necessary to take into account several nuances. For example, treatment, as well as use for preventive purposes, will have an effect only if the vegetable was grown in natural conditions, harvested in due time and stored correctly. Few people know, but to determine healthy pepper maybe by its color. If it is greenish or not quite red, this may indicate both an unripe product and its expiration date.

You need to buy the product from a trusted store to be completely confident in its quality. The spice can only be stored in a dry container, tightly closed with a lid. It is advisable to place the jar in a cool place away from direct sunlight.

The best storage container is considered to be one made of glass. It is not advisable to store pepper in a metal can.

The cost of cayenne pepper is about 70 rubles per 10 g. However, you can buy it in almost any supermarket. However, you need to choose carefully, based on the color of the vegetable or powder itself. It is important to consider the expiration date indicated on the label.

To rid the body of sinusitis or frontal sinusitis and other ailments accompanied by thickening of mucus, you should buy the powder and add it to food. For preventive purposes, you can also buy dried vegetables. For treatment, you can choose capsules or powder.

What else do you need to know?

Considering the many beneficial properties of cayenne pepper, we must not forget that it is not medicine. You cannot impose treatment on him, refusing the doctor’s recommendations. Can't replace them drug treatment, especially if the disease is quite serious. This is nothing more than a supplement with a medicinal effect.

It can really reduce pain and improve the condition of the body. But if you don’t fight the existing problem before it becomes widespread, not only traditional medicine and pepper will not help in the future, but also drugs that could stop the course of the disease when the doctor spoke about them. You should not exceed the dosage of the product consumed, since a large amount in this case does not mean ideal health. It is worth understanding that only moderation and course use will improve the condition of the body if health problems are not advanced.

Regarding the use of pepper for weight loss, it is worth understanding that without the appropriate physical exercise You may not expect significant weight loss. Even considering the fact that the spice can burn fat and dull the feeling of hunger, it is important to be aware that there is no result without effort.

You won’t be able to eat tasty food and lose weight without doing exercises aimed at burning fatty tissue in certain areas of the body. In addition, excessive consumption of pepper in large doses will harm your health.

Hot red cayenne is a popular and hottest seasoning. IN South America There is probably no dish in which it is not used. What is cayenne pepper, its beneficial properties, use in cooking and dietetics - we will talk about this further.

Description

Cayenne pepper is the fruit of Capsicum frutescens or C. annuum. It grows in the tropics. It was known to the aborigines long before the arrival of Europeans. Over time, it spread and began to be cultivated in India, Spain, and Mexico. When suitable conditions are created ( , ) it is grown in any climatic zone.

Plants reach a height of 1.5 meters. The leaves are elongated, oval, light green. The flowers are white, good conditions blooms and bears fruit all year round

The fruits come in a variety of shapes - they come in the form of a trunk, a cone, or a ball. Ripe fruits become red to white in color. Immature pods are green or purple.

Beneficial features

Although chili peppers are known for their spicy taste, they also have many useful properties. Chili contains a lot of riboflavin, potassium, iron, niacin and magnesium. In addition to this, it is a good source of vitamins E, A, C, B6, K and manganese. And contains almost no sodium and cholesterol.

The alkaloid capsaicin gives it a burning taste. It also contains piperidine, a set of carotenoids, chavicin, essential oils and fatty oils. The plant has a warming effect, accelerates the blood and dilates blood vessels.

Cayenne pepper benefits and treatment

Such properties and content useful substances determine the use of chili in pharmaceuticals and medicine. The warming effect of the fruit is used in the form of mustard plasters and ointments for topical use. Chili tincture helps with headaches and relieves tissue inflammation.

The plant is also used to stimulate blood circulation. With its help, nutrients are distributed throughout the body at high speed. And in general, chili has a beneficial effect on the blood.

Oddly enough, chili is good for improving digestion and fighting ulcers. It heals and restores the gastric mucosa and kills harmful microorganisms.

Losing weight with cayenne pepper

With their ability to speed up metabolism and their special pungency that suppresses appetite, the fruits attracted the attention of diet planners. There are several ways to use cayenne pepper for weight loss.
These include special capsules with ground fruits, a drink based on them, and simply adding a few spoons of ground product to food. The recommended dose is from one teaspoon to one tablespoon per day, for 10-30 days.

If you decide to use pepper for weight loss, prepare this drink:

For a glass of filtered water, take 3 tablespoons of juice, 2 tablespoons maple syrup and ¼ teaspoon ground cayenne pepper.

In the morning, drink a glass of salted water to cleanse your body. Drink the prepared drink according to the recipe throughout the day. Drink green tea one hour before going to bed. To exit the diet: you need to start drinking freshly squeezed citrus juices for the next 36 hours on days 9-10 or 20-21. Next, move on to vegetable soups and boiled ones - up to 5 days.

Important! The downside is the loss muscle mass with this diet. Therefore, be sure to consult your doctor.

Use in cooking

But the most widespread use of chili is in cooking. This pepper is an integral part of Mexican, African and Asian cuisine. Without having a distinct taste, pepper imparts a pungency to the dish and completely changes the taste and aroma of the food.

It is this that gives a special piquancy and reveals the taste of meat, fish, eggs, and cheese. Various sauces, seasonings with pepper or simply a mixture with vegetable oil will add originality to the dish.

Harm and contraindications

Red chili pepper, in addition to having useful qualities, can also cause harm if safety rules are abused and safe doses are violated. All this can provoke the appearance of ulcers, disruption of digestion and kidney function.