The cayenne pepper, or Capiscum annum, derives its proper name from a Greek word meaning "to bite," a clear allusion to the pungent properties of the plant and its seeds. However, it's the many medicinal applications of the pepper that earned it the nickname "The King of Herbs."
==Special Precautions of Cayenne==
*Cayenne is generally a safe herb. But because it is so potent, cayenne side effects may sometimes arise due to improper use or overuse of the cayenne herb.
*Also, do note that, when a particular herb has powerful health properties, it will naturally cause certain reactions in the body. Often, these are signs of cleansing or healing, sometimes referred to as detox reactions. People often mistake these as negative reactions or adverse effects.
*Cayenne seeds, as they can be toxic, should not be used.
*Also, if pregnant or breast-feeding, cayenne supplements should preferably not be taken.
*Those who suffer from allergic reactions to latex, bananas, kiwi, chestnuts, and avocado may also have an allergic reaction to cayenne.
*In addition, if capsaicin is taken for prolonged timeframes, there would be risk of developing some cayenne side effects like liver damage, stomach problems, etc, so do be careful on overdosing.
*Topical Cayenne Side Effects of Cayenne Creams and Lotions : A patch test on a small portion of skin is to be conducted to assess cayenne tolerance and any tendency to allergic reaction, before commencing usage of the cream containing capsaicin. If not tolerated well, it can cause burning, itching and severe allergic reactions.
*Capsaicin should not be used immediately after showering or before hot showers and it is also not to be used with a heating pad. After using cayenne, hands should be washed well and touching of the eyes is to be avoided.
*In addition, creams containing capsaicin should not be applied on the area around the eyes, or where there is broken skin or mucous membranes.
*Overdoing it on topical cayenne lotion or cream can cause external cayenne side effects, such as inflammation of the skin, ulcers and blisters.
*If a patient is being administered treatment of the following generic drugs for varied multiple conditions, then cayenne preparations should not be used without the supervision of a physician.
*Cayenne is contraindicated for individuals on ACE inhibitors, agents that reduce stomach acid, aspirin, blood-thinning medications and herbs, and theophyline.
==The benefits of Cayenne are==
Many people think of this spicy little beauty as just a delicious way to boost the flavor of their cooking, but this pepper is a valuable medical tool with a wide range of uses. According to a combination of herbal lore and medical research, capsicum may: