CAPSICUM

It is the use of Capsicum (also referred to as Cayenne ) that led to the start of Nature’s Sunshine Products. In 1972 Gene Hughes, one of the founders of the company, took it by the spoonful to help his stomach.

Capsicum has been regularly used as a condiment in cooking by many cultures, including Central America and Asia , however it was virtually unknown in Europe until Columbus returned with it from his first voyage to the New World.

Capsicum contains a compound called capsaicin, which contributes to its heat. It is considered a vasostimulant, helping to support the flow of blood to the periphery, and can be of assistance when there are cold hands and feet. It is also anti-spasmodic and carminative (an agent that relieves flatulence), making it useful in cases of flatulent dyspepsia/indigestion when there is no inflammation present.

As well as its use internally, Capsicum is sometimes used externally, made into a poultice, to help relieve joint pain.