Common names: cayenne pepper, capsicum.
Pharmacy name: cayenne pepper – Capsici fructus aseg (formerly: Fructus Capsici frutescentis). Dried fruits are called “heelis”.
Botanical description. The main distinguishing feature of all kinds of this pepper from the red capsicum (paprika) belonging to the same family is small fruits. Tropical America can be considered the birthplace of cayenne pepper, but it is grown in many places and, accordingly, has many varieties.
Active ingredients: the content of the pungent substance capsaicin is much higher than that of paprika.
Application. In the tropics, it is mainly used as a condiment. Since it became known that the bitter substance contained in its fruits relieves blood circulation, this spice has been increasingly used in European cuisine. There is no specific medical use.