Safe Herbs for Dogs - Cayenne

Cayenne Capsicum spp. (Nightshade family)

Main Constituents and Medicinal Activities

The fruit of this herb contains:

Calcium, phosphorus, iron, and zinc
Vitamins A, B and C
Capsaicin, oleic, palmetic, stearic acid

Cayenne has the following medicinal activities:

stimulant for all body systems
dilates blood vessels
stops bleeding
rubefacient
diaphoretic (induce sweating)
antioxidant
anti-inflammatory
tonic

Common Uses in Dogs

Cayenne stimulates blood circulation, thus it is an excellent carrier herb that helps transport other herbs to different parts of the body, in particular, the heart, stomach, and brain.

Since it regulates blood flow, it is a good stimulant that can be used to improved blood circulation in dogs, and to strengthen the heart, arteries, capillaries, and nerves. It also helps digestion, stimulating the appetite and dispelling gas.

Topically, it's rubefacient and anti-inflammatory properties make it a good choice for treatment of stiff or arthritic joints.

Finally, cayenne is also effective in stopping bleeding. To stop the bleeding of a minor cut, or a claw that was clipped too short, grab some ground cayenne from your kitchen and apply it directly to the cut/injury. For synergistic effect, use a mixture of cayenne and yarrow powders as a first-aid remedy to stop bleeding.

Precautions

High doses of cayenne over extended periods of time can cause irritation to the digestive tract.

Due to the strong irritating effect of cayenne on the mucous membrances, always keep it away from the eyes and nose. Also avoid using cayenne externally on dogs with sensitive skin.

Availability

The plants available at most nurseries, and cayenne peppers are readily available in supermarkets. Capsules (of the powdered fruits), oil infusions, salves, ointments, and tinctures are available at herbal and health food stores.

Get herbs (fresh and dried) and tinctures from:

Mountain Rose Herbs. A herbs, health and harmony c

J.A. Duke, The Green Pharmacy Herbal Handbook: Your Comprehensive Reference to the Best Herbs for Healing (Rodale Books, 2000).
R. Kidd, Dr. Kidd's Guide to Herbal Dog Care (Storey Publishing, 2000).
M.L. Wulff-Tilford and G.L. Tilford, Herbs for Pets (Bowtie Press, 1999).

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