Cayenne Pepper as Pain Relief

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Cayenne Pepper is an alternative therapy for pain as well as being an

anti-inflammatory, an antioxidant, an antiseptic, an antiviral, an

astringent, a circulatory tonic, a counterirritant, a diaphoretic, an

expectorant, a hemostatic, and a stimulant.

Cayenne causes the brain to secrete more endorphins. Cayenne is rich in

vitamin C. It is considered thermogenic, meaning it can rev up

metabolism and aid in weight loss. Cayenne also improves circulation.

Cayenne helps to relieve pain, not only due to its endorphin enhancing

properties, but also when diluted and used topically it helps to block

pain messages to the brain.

It is used as a topical treatment for: Arthritis, Bruises, Pain, Sore

Throat, Sprains, and open Wounds.

Topical Applications include:

Gargle for sore throat; apply topically to bleeding wounds to stop the

blood flow

lotions and creams may be purchased that contain the active ingredient,

capsaicin, which is applied topically to arthritic joints,

sprains and bruises helping to decrease pain and inflammation.

Putting a bit of Cayenne between your shoes and socks on a cold winters

day helps to keep the feet warm.

Contraindications and Warnings:

Keep away from eyes and mucus membranes. Wash hands after contact with

any loose form of cayenne. If you ingest cayenne and it is scorching

your mouth, rather than drinking water use milk or beer to quench the

fire. Avoid large doses when pregnant and nursing. Seeds can be

especially hot and in some varieties are best avoided. Large doses may

irritate the gastro-intestinal tract and kidneys

Cayenne peppers vary greatly in the amount of heat and are actually

categorized from anywhere between 0 to 300,000 scovile units. Green

peppers are 0 while the hottest, such as Habaneros, are 300,000. A more

modern system simply rates heat on a scale of 1 to 10. Many people

consume lots of hot peppers in tropical climates as the heat will induce

perspiration, which actually helps a person to cool off.

The common name Cayenne Pepper also includes the species Capsicum

annuum, a species that includes both Chili Peppers and Paprika.

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