Botanical Name(s): Capsicum frutescens L.
Popular Name(s): African red pepper, American pepper, Chili pepper, Chilies, Garden pepper, Red pepper
Parts Used: Fruits
Habitat: Africa pepper is found in Africa, Asia and South America. It is available in other parts of the world also.
Description: Africa pepper grows to a height of 3 feet or more. The plant possesses a stem which is woody at the lower areas but is branched at the upper parts. The leaves are ovate and petioled. The flowers are white to yellow in colour. The plant bears fruits which are in the form of pods having many seeds. The ripen fruit is red or yellow in colour.
Uses: Africa pepper has antiseptic, antibacterial and carminative properties. It has beneficial antioxidant and cardiovascular effects and it benefits gastrointestinal functions. It is used in bursitis, diabetic neuropathy, osteoarthritis, psoriasis, rheumatoid arthritis and in a number of other diseases.