196 MEDICINAL PLANTS OF JAMAICA. 



It grows in waste lands by the road side, into a shrubby tree. 

 The white beans do not fall, being fastened by a crimson 

 pulp.) 



22. Capsicum. 



Capsicum annuum. — Coekspur Pepper. 



baccatum. — Cherry Pepper. 



grossum Gourd Pepper. 



frutescens. — Bird Pepper. 



(varietas.) — Hen Pepper. 



galericulum. — Bonnet Pepper. 



These, and some other varieties, are called Negro Peppers. 

 The bird and hen peppers are indigenous ; the others are cul- 

 tivated in gardens ; and all of them have the same sensible 

 qualities, differing only in degrees of pungency. The bird 

 pepper is the smallest, but hotter than any of the others. 



All the capsicums may be preserved in vinegar, and form 

 the best of pickles. 



When nearly ripe they become red ; and if gathered at 

 this time, dried, and powdered, make Cayenne pepper. Some 

 mix common salt ; but this is improper, as it disposes the 

 whole to deliquesce, and darkens the colour. 



Capsicum has a warm and kindly effect on the stomach. 

 It has all the virtues of the oriental spices, without producing 

 those complaints of the head which they often occasion. In 

 food it prevents flatulency from vegetables ; but the abuse of 

 it occasions visceral obstructions, especially of the liver. 



In dropsical complaints, or others where chalybeates are 

 indicated, a minute portion of powdered capsicum is an ex- 

 cellent addition. 



In lethargic affections this warm and active stimulant 

 might be of service. In tropical fevers a coma and delirium 

 are common attendants ; and, in such cases, cataplasms of 

 capsicum have a speedy and happy effect. They redden the 

 parts, but seldom blister, unless kept on too long. 



