Cayenne Pepper Capsules and the Heart
Answered by: Richters Staff
Question from: Doug S.
Posted: Before April 1998

After reading a book "Left For Dead" by (?) Quinn, and how he had a marvelous recovery from the use of cayenne pepper in gelatin capsules, I have tried using the product from the local health food store. However, I have been warned about its use in relation to the heart. I would like to have your input as to this use.

1. What information do you have as to the pros and cons of using cayenne pepper for the improvement of a weak, or damaged heart muscle?
2. Does it actually help to open clogged, hardening or partially damaged arteries of the heart?
3. How is it useful in the treatment of heart disease?
4. What is considered a maximum dose per day?
5. Do you sell the product, and at what cost?
6. I understand it is rated in heat units. If you started at a low heat unit and went up to a higher HU, what number of capsules would one take when going to a higher strength?


As we are not qualified medical care providers we cannot provide specific advice for your particular health condition. The information provided here is only for study and research purposes. Please consult your health care provider for advice on using cayenne or any other herb.

According to Daniel Mowrey, author of "Proven Herbal Blends" (available from Richters), cayenne will increase circulation and lower blood pressure. It lowers blood pressure by lowering blood cholesterol. In one study cited by Mowrey, rats fed high cholesterol diets did not develop high liver cholesterol when fed cayenne or capsaicin, the active ingredient. Cayenne seemed to interfere with the absorption of cholesterol because more free cholesterol was found in the feces of the rats fed cayenne compared to those that did not get cayenne. Mowrey also says that capsaicin acts more directly to reduce blood pressure in what he describes as a "kind of coronary chemoreflex."

While it may seem contradictory, cayenne can also increase circulation. It does not do that by increasing blood pressure, rather by another process that is not yet fully understood. Mowrey says that cayenne releases "endogenous gastric secretagogues which increase tissue perfusion by blood and secretory activity."

Yes, cayenne can be useful for heart disease. Mowrey recommends a blend containing hawthorn, motherwort, rosemary, kelp and cayenne. The blend prevents or reduces the symptoms of many heart diseases and according to Mowrey, is "extremely safe." He does suggest that cayenne is potent and should not be taken in excessive doses. If it irritates it is probably too much. What is the maximum dose? Probably as much as you can take without severe discomfort, however, your health care provider should be consulted.

"Heat units" are highly subjective. We do not recommend relying on them for dosage decisions.

Richters sells cayenne seeds for growing your own and dried cayenne powder. Consult our catalogue for details.

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