An oleoresin is obtained by solvent extraction. L. Capsicum species are used fresh or dried, whole or ground, and alone or in combination with other flavoring agents. Capsicum annuum L. is used in sweet bell peppers, paprika, pimento, and other red pepper products. Capsicum frutescens L. is used in tabasco, tabasco sauce, and other red chili pepper. Fruits of Capsicum annuum L., paprika types, are widely used as coloring agents.
Chili powder is a blend of spices that includes ground chilies.
Cayenne pepper is the ground product derived from the smaller, most pungent Capsicum species. As a medicinal plant, the Capsicum species has been used as a carminative, digestive irritant, stomachic, stimulant, rubefacient, and tonic. The plants have also been used as folk remedies for dropsy, colic, diarrhea, asthma, arthritis, muscle cramps, and toothache. Other Capsicum species of some importance include Capsicum chinense , Capsicum pendulum , Capsicum pubescens , and Capsicum minimum . Black and white pepper come from Piper nigrens L., of the Piperaceae family.