Cayenne or Capsicum derives its name from the Greek, 'to bite,' in allusion to the hot pungent properties of the fruits and seeds. Cayenne pepper was introduced into Britain from India in 1548, and Gerard mentioned it as being cultivated in his time. A powerful local stimulant, with no narcotic effect largely used in hot climates as a condiment, and most useful in atony of the intestines and stomach. (1) Cayenne is one of the finest stimulants, producing a heat and burning sensation in the mouth, which immediately upon swallowing is communicated to the stomach, speedily diffusing, itself throughout the entire system. (2)

References:

1. “Cayenne.” c, https://botanical.com/botanical/mgmh/c/cayenn40.html.

2. (http://www.lform.com), Lform Design 2019. David Winston's Center for Herbal Studies, https://www.herbalstudies.net/_media/resources/library/Botanic-Pharmacopoeia.