Your Grandma always told you that “an apple a day keeps the doctor away” There is much to be said about this. There are natural ways to keep us in good shape and it all depends greatly upon our eating habits.

You have tried an apple a day, but did you ever try peppers a.k.a. capsicums?

Peppers are rich in Vitamin C (ascorbic acid) and Zinc, two nutrients which are vital for a strong and healthy immune system. They is also high in vitamins A, C, rutin (a bioflavonoid), beta carotene, iron, calcium and potassium.

Peppers contain magnesium, phosphorus, sulphur, B-complex vitamins, sodium and selenium. These combinations of minerals and vitamins make peppers a powerful food for natural remedies.

The Cayenne Pepper was introduced to Europe by Christopher Columbus which was also known as “Guinea Pepper. ” In 1597, Gerard referred to Capsicum as extremely hot and dry and prescribed it for throat and skin infections.

Health practitioners of the nineteenth century called phsysiomedicalists, used peppers to counteract rheumatism, arthritis, depression and chills.

It is an excellant anti-coagulant and lowers the blood pressure as well as cholestrol, thus it is recommended for heart patients.

It has even been perscribed for some for balding. One cure says to soak the red pepper in Vodka for 2 weeks, strain and apply the liquid on the balding patch, daily for six weeks.

Peppers are said to be a great help for Bronchitis patients as they mucus secretions and clear congestion. Peppers are also said to help in strengthening bones and keeping rheumatism under control.

Homoeopaths use capsicum in their mother tincture to cure many patients of such maladies as letharargy, joint pains, home sickness, obesity and hysteria.

Imp: According to doctors. the use of peppers should be avoided for those who suffer from piles and gastric ulcers.