How the Hot Pepper Plant Is Used in Different Cultures

Spice

• The most common use for hot peppers is culinary. Hot peppers are used dry and fresh in countless recipes. Pepper-heavy cuisine is most prevalent in South American, Asian and Indian cultures. However, this practice has spread to every country in the world.

Medicine

• Some cultures, especially those in South America, value hot peppers for their medicinal uses. The most common method of consumption is dissolving a few tbsp. of dried, ground hot pepper in a cup of warm water and drinking. This "pepper tea" is said to calm stomachaches, headaches, and help with weight loss, colds and even help battle heart attacks and cancer.

Self Defense

• Perhaps one of the most unique uses for hot peppers is pepper spray. Pepper spray is used by citizens as well as police officers and security guards. Capsaicin, the component that gives hot peppers their spice, is often the main ingredient used in the production of pepper spray. The use of hot peppers in self defense is widespread throughout many western cultures.