What is Capsicum?
Capsicum is another name for the pepper, a nightshade plant native to Mexico and Central America. The general name usually refers to the Capsicum annum and Capsicum frutescens plant groups.TypesCapsicum annum includes bell peppers, paprika and pimento. The more pungent peppers, Capsicum frutescens includes the chili and Tabasco pepper, according to the Purdue Guide to Medicinal and Aromatic Plants.UsesCooked or raw, peppers are used in a variety foods, including sauces, soups, rice, chili and salad. The peppers have medicinal uses as well.BenefitsCapsicum peppers contain significant amounts of vitamin A and vitamin C, says the University of Illinois Extension. Topically, capsaicin, the active ingredient that make peppers hot, may be used to treat pain, according to the American Cancer Society.ConsiderationsExcessive consumption of peppers may aggravate stomach ulcers, according to the Purdue Guide to Medicinal and Aromatic Plants. The peppers may also cause skin irritation, sweating an
