Herb for 2016 Year is: Peppers -Capsicum ssp - Part 2

Cayenne has been known to bring blood and body heat to the surface, stimulating sweating and cooling of the body. It also acts as an energy stimulant, slightly encouraging the adrenals to produce cortisone (Keville, 1996). Research has shown that Capsaicin blocks the transmission of pain and itching by nerve fibers in the skin. When Capsaicin applied in the form of a tropical cream helps to relieve pain by depleting local supplies of a neurotransmitter called substance P. (Hoffman 1996). Clinical trials showed that 75% of the people who applied a capsaicin cream on their shingle disease experienced substantial pain relief, with only occasional burning sensation. A small amount of cayenne stabilizes blood pressure and reduces excessive bleeding anywhere in the body. Scientific literature review also shown that ulcer patients in a New Delhi, India Hospital experienced the same rate of healing after 4 weeks of eating 3 grams (1/2 teaspoon) a day as those who abstained (Keville, 1996).

Capasicin peppers are rich in a host of nutrients, including beta-carotene, carotenoids, lutein, Vitamin C, Vitamin A, fiber, potassium, folic acid and iron. Some hot peppers like cayenne were used to aid digestion and stimulate the appetite. The smaller and more pointed the pepper is then the hotter the taste.

References:

Keville, K. (1996) The Illustrated Herb Encyclopedia - A Complete Culinary, Cosmetic, Medicinal and Ornamental Guide To Herbs, (New York, NY: Mallard Press: 1991), 57- 58

Kowalchick, C., Hylton, W. H. (1987) Rodale's Illustrated Encyclopedia of Herbs. (United States: Rodale Press, Inc). 75-78

Houdret, J, (2002) Herbs (New York, NY - Hermes House, Anness Publishing Inc.) pp 124

Hoffmann, D, (2003) Medical Herbalism: The Science and Practice of Herbal Medicine. (New York, NY: Kensington Publishing Corp), 536