Cayenne pepper traces its roots back to Central and South America, where it was cultivated for thousands of years. Indigenous peoples in these regions used it not only as a food source but also as a medicinal herb.
The pepper was introduced to Europe in the 15th century by Christopher Columbus, who brought it back from his voyages to the New World. Its name is derived from the city of Cayenne in French Guiana, though it is now grown worldwide, particularly in India, Mexico, Africa and the United States. (Related: Cayenne peppers are medicinal powerhouses that deserve a spot in your emergency medical kit.)
The spread of cayenne pepper across the globe was fueled by its versatility and potency. It quickly became a staple in traditional medicine systems, including Ayurveda and Traditional Chinese Medicine, where it was used to treat digestive issues, improve circulation and alleviate pain...<<<Read More>>>...
