Gargle for sore throat, apply topically to bleeding wounds to stop the blood flow. Lotions and creams may be purchased that contain the active ingredient, capsaicin, which is applied topically to arthritic joints, sprains and bruises. Putting a bit of Cayenne between your shoes and socks on a cold winters day helps to keep the feet warm. Wash hands after contact with any loose form of cayenne. Avoid large doses when pregnant and nursing.
Seeds can be especially hot and in some varieties are best avoided.
Large doses may irritate the gastro-intestinal tract and kidneys. Cayenne peppers vary greatly in the amount of heat and are actually categorized from anywhere between 0 to 300,000 scovile units. Green peppers are 0 while the hottest, such as Habaneros, are 300,000. A more modern system simply rates heat on a scale of 1 to 10. Many people consume lots of hot peppers in tropical climates as the heat will induce perspiration, which actually helps a person to cool off.