African Bird Pepper Health Benefits

by Kobie Babb

African bird pepper, also known as Capsicum Frutescens, is a hot chili pepper that measures from 80,000 to over 150,000 SHU. Where does the African bird plant grow? Well as the name suggest, it is native to northwest Africa. It contains carotene molecules that have potent antioxidant elements. It has been successfully used to treat arthritis, psoriasis, cluster headaches, and pain associated with amputation. It is also effective at lowering the rate of cardiovascular disease. There's even claims that it has been successful in stopping heart attacks.

What is African bird pepper used for? In the 16th century, African slaves learned the potency of this pepper first hand. Forced to find creative ways of dealing with sicknesses that plagued their whole family, they came up with innovative ways of using fruits and herbs to deal with there sicknesses. Their concoctions of herbs became known as "bush medicine" and the herbalist became known as bush doctors. The African bird pepper quickly became a very important ingredient for their bush medicine. Not only did they use the pepper to flavor food, they were also able to use it for healing purposes.

Not only slaves have found uses for African bird pepper. Medical science has also found uses for it. The uses include leukemia as well as colon and arterial cleansing. It prevents the build up of plaque in the arteries, which rids the body of bad LDL cholesterol and triglycerides, while, at the same, not adversely affecting the HDL levels. It's also good for stomach pain, cramping, gas, and constipation. It has also shown the potential of regulating blood sugar levels, which is essential for treating diabetic conditions.

African bird pepper is especially high in vitamin A, which takes part in remodeling bones. It also helps with keeping the lining of the skin, lungs, and gut healthy, and at the same time, protecting your vision. It also has vitamin C, which helps absorb iron, prevents easy bruising, and promotes wound healing and the production of collagen. Vitamin C is also an antioxidant, which protects your cells against free radicals. It also has vitamin B complex, which is required for vascular contractions, muscle function, nerve transmission, and hormone secretion. It also has the electrolytes potassium, sodium, chloride, calcium, and magnesium. 

So now what are the side effects of African bird pepper? Pregnant and breast feeding women should stay on the safe side, and avoid using African bird pepper. It also slows clotting so if you are using medication related to the blood, use caution. It can be extremely irritating to the eyes, nose and the throat as well.

We recommend that you consult with a qualified healthcare practitioner before using herbal products, particularly if you are pregnant, nursing, or on any medications.

*This statement has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. For educational purposes only.