The cayenne pepper is the hot chili pepper of the Capsicum annuum plant, which is native to northern South America and southern North America. A nightshade fruit that is related to the bell pepper, jalapeno, and paprika, cayenne peppers are often dried and ground into a powder then used to prepare spicy meals. Many cultures also like to add them to cakes, chocolates, and even beverages. Despite their various uses in the kitchen, however, cayenne…
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, an estimated 67 million Americans – approximately one in three adults – suffer from hypertension, or high blood pressure. In 2009 alone, high blood pressure was the primary or contributing cause of almost 350,000 deaths in the United States, which averages at 1,000 deaths per day. The disorder is, in essence, an epidemic in the Western world. Though high blood pressure can be triggered by stress…
Walnuts are the large, single-seeded fruits of the walnut tree. Though different species of walnut exist, the English walnut, which originated in Persia, remains the most popular species. In fact, virtually all of today’s commercially-produced walnuts are either English walnuts or hybrids thereof. Other species of walnut, such as the black walnut, are seldom cultivated due to their comparatively tough shells and poor hulling qualities. Walnuts are highly nutritious, and their health benefits have been…
Celery has long been associated with good health. The stalks of this aromatic plant, which is believed to have originated from the Mediterranean basin, has been used worldwide to treat countless medical issues ranging from mild constipation to serious inflammatory diseases. Today, over one billion pounds of celery are produced annually in the United States alone, with Michigan, Florida, and California accounting for 80 percent of all celery production. Despite its popularity, many people assume…
The banana plant is a herbaceous, flowering plant indigenous to the tropical regions of India, northern Australia, and Southeast Asia. Its fruits, which are recognized by their crescent shape, yellow skins and sweet tastes, are one of the oldest crops cultivated by mankind and remain the most popular fruit consumed in the United States. In fact, the United States Department of Agriculture claims that Americans eat more than 10 pounds of bananas per person every…
