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Capsicum minimum/C. frutescens
(Solanaceae)
CAYENNE, CHILLI, AFRICAN CHILLI
The red or yellow fruit of this
hot African and West Indian chilli is one of the most popular traditional
aids for ailments that invovle reduced blood circulation, such as poor
digestion and chilblains.
This hot chilli from Africa and the Caribbean is widely used in spicy foods;
cayenne pepper and Tabasco are chilli-based seasonings. The existence of hot chillies was
recorded by Columbus's doctor on his second voyage to the West Indies in 1494.
They are hotter than the larger Indian chillies and are relatives of the sweet pepper,
or capsicum, from which paprika is made.
A perennial with egg-shaped leaves and small white flowers, C. minimum has distinctive, red or yellow, oblong fruit.
PARTS USED
Fruit.
ACTIVE INGREDIENTS
A phenolic compound,
capsaicin; carotenoids; saponins known as capsicidins; flavonoids; volatile oil.
ACTIONS
Increases blood flow; induces sweating; reduces muscle tension and spasm;
stimulates blood flow to the skin; relieves wind and colic; counter-irritant; antiseptic.
MEDICINAL USE
Widely used in conditions where reduced blood circulation is a factor,
including digestive debility, flatulent colic, and reduced peripheral (local) circulation. Applied externally for joint inflammation,
unbroken chilblains, and lumbago (low back pain).
PREPARATIONS
Tincture, cream, powder.
CAUTION
Use only in small doses to avoid irritating the stomach or burning the skin. |
