Culinary uses Use the fresh or dried whole pods. Grind the dried pods to use as spice. Culinary Oils and Vinegars Medicinal Use Cayenne should never be used by pregnant or lactating women. In many countries, red pepper is believed to be a stomach-settling digestive aid. Varro E. Tyler, PhD, professor of pharmacognosy at Purdue University School of Pharmacy in West Lafayette, Ind., and author of The Honest Herbal believes it works .
Cayenne stimulates the flow of saliva and stomach secretions.
Saliva contains enzymes that begin the breakdown of carbohydrates, and stomach secretions contain acids and other digestive substances. Contrary to popular belief, eating hot peppers doesn't harm the stomach. In one study, researchers used a tiny video camera to examine subjects' stomach linings after both bland meals and meals liberally spiced with jalapeno peppers, another close cousin of cayenne. They concluded that eating highly spiced meals causes no damage to the stomach in people with normal gastrointestinal tracts. Eating hot peppers may not be a good idea for people who have stomach or intestinal problems.