The world's hottest peppers are under three inches long. So much for size. Peppers are native to South America and they are actually chiles, and not peppers. Christopher Columbus, however, named them peppers when arriving in the New World, because he thought they were related to black pepper. Black pepper belongs to the genus Piper.
Peppers are one of the oldest domesticated plants.
I dare you. Pickled pepper eaters are attracted to the sensation which produces endorphins and build up tolerance, seeking ever hotter sensations and greater effect. Good for the body and soul. Therapeutic benefits of peppers include claims that they are lung cleaners, expectorants, relievers of bronchitis and emphysema, decongestants, blood clot busters, and even pain killers. Evidence indicates they plain make you feel good, too.