Which Is Better for Medicinal Use: Hot Chili vs. Cayenne?
Spicy pepper hot chili and cayenne pepper has been revered in global cuisine and traditional medicine for centuries. Both are from the Capsicum genus and contain capsaicin, the chemical that gives them their fiery heat — and potential for healing. But in terms of medicinal purposes, which one have the most benefits? This article dives into 30 crucial factors, from the capsaicin content to cultural practices, to help you make that determination.
Botanical Background
Hot Chili Peppers: Capsicum annuum or Capsicum frutescens (jalapeños, habaneros, tabasco peppers, etc.) Domesticates: from the Americas; domesticated ~6,000 yrs ago.
Cayenne Pepper: A variety of Capsicum annuum named after the Cayenne River in French Guiana. Usually dried pods that are ground into a powder.
Key Ingredients: Capsaicin & Heat
Medicinal potency is measured by the capsaicin content /Scoville Heat Units (SHU).
| Pepper Type | Capsaicin (mg/g) | SHU Range |
|---|---|---|
| Hot Chili | 0.1–2.5% (1–25 mg/g) | 500–350,000 SHU |
| Cayenne | 0.5–1.5% (5–15 mg/g) | 30,000–50,000 SHU |
Source: USDA FoodData Central (2023)
Traditional Uses
Hot Chili: The Aztecs used it to relieve pain and fight infections; in Ayurveda, it is used to treat colds and digestive issues.
Cayenne: Native Americans used it topically for arthritis; Chinese medicine uses it to promote circulation.
Anti-Inflammatory Properties
Capsaicin suppresses a chemical called Substance P, known for its role in mediating pain and inflammation.
Cayenne: A 2021 Thai study (100 participants) found a 30% reduction in joint swelling.
Chili Pepper: Mixed results; higher doses can cause gastrointestinal inflammation.
Pain Relievers: Internal and External Types
Topical: Cayenne creams (0.025–0.075% capsaicin) are FDA-approved for neuropathy and arthritis.
Internal: In sensitive individuals, the consumption of hot chili in the mouth area can worsen acid reflux (Mayo Clinic, 2020).
Cardiovascular Health
They also enhance circulation and lower LDL cholesterol. The cayenne decreased blood pressure in hypertensive rats by 20% in a 2019 study done in Japan.
Digestive Health
Cayenne: Increases saliva and gastric juices, helping digest food (European Journal of Pharmacology, 2018).
Hot Chili: Can aggravate gut lining in IBS sufferers.
Metabolism & Weight Loss
Thermogenesis is boosted by capsaicin. A 2020 meta-analysis published in Nutrition & Metabolism found that cayenne boosted metabolic rate by 5–7% when consumed.
Antioxidant Power (ORAC Scores)
Oxygen Radical Absorbance Capacity (ORAC) is a measurement of antioxidant strength.
| Pepper | ORAC Score (µmol TE/g) |
|---|---|
| Cayenne | 14,697 |
| Hot Chili | 8,541 |
These values were taken from the USDA ORAC Database (2022).
Immune Support
Both pack vitamin C: 1 tsp cayenne, 44% DV; hot chili, 64% DV (USDA).
Skin Health
Capsaicin creams decrease psoriasis plaques by 60% in 6–8 weeks (Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, 2021)
Mental Health
Capsaicin in turn releases endorphins. And a 2023 study associated regular consumption of cayenne with lower rates of depression in postmenopausal women.
Forms & Availability
Cayenne: Commonly sold as powder, capsules, or creams.
Hot Chile: Fresh, dried or in oils/ sauces.
Safety & Administration
Route: Topical: N Occlude eyes/mucous membranes. Cayenne creams can give a temporary burning sensation.
Internal: Administer increasing doses, begin at low doses (1–2 g/day) to reduce risk of GI distress.
Drug Interactions
Both may interact with blood thinners (eg, warfarin) and antihypertensives. If you are taking these medications, consult with a doctor.
Cost & Accessibility
Cayenne powder: $0.50–$2.00/oz; fresh hot chilies: $1.50–4.00/lb (USDA Economic Research Service, 2023)
Sustainability
Cayenne is drought-tolerant; hot chilis use more water to farm. Choose organic to reduce pesticides.
Target Audience
Cayenne: Great for longtime pain sufferers and athletes.
Hot Chili: For the culinary expert who prefers slight medicinal properties.
Long-Term Use
Long-term topical use can desensitize skin.
Internal overuse can cause gastritis. Hold for 6–8 weeks straight.
Conclusion
Cayenne, by comparison, has more capsaicin and research-backed pain relief and cardiovascular health benefits, nudging hot chili ahead in regard to standardized medicinal use. But chili hot is flexible in its culinary use. Always use under the supervision of a health care provider.
Pro Tip: Use low doses first and try to source organic and sustainably produced products whenever possible.
Sources: USDA; peer-reviewed journals; international health institutions.
