Herbs anyone??? (Part 6) - Bird's Eye Chilli

Being labeled as one of the most spicy member of the Capsicum plant genus, the Bird's Eye Chilli is categorised under the hot chill pepper group. The Bird's Eye Chilli is also known in Malay as Cili Padi or Cili Padi Kampong and is related to many other types of chillies that can be found in the region.


Eventhough, there are many types of chillies that can be found all over the world, one common characteristics that can be found in every species is the chemical constituent known as capsaicin. These chemical capsaicin actually is the one responsible for the stimulation of the nerves in the mouth, facial parts like nose, mouth & eyes that causes burning sensation.


Chilli peppers of all types are rich in vitamin C, K and carotenoids, where the vitamin K helps in blood clotting. Chillies of all varieties are known to contain antioxidant properties, therefore, they prevent cell damage and act as anti-aging agents..so you gals & guys out there...don't need any expensive vitamins or expensive creams..just increase the chillies in your everyday diet to stay young ;-)

Some findings also revealed that one of the ingredients that exists in the chillies helps to control insulin levels and lowers blood glucose levels. The natural capsaicin presence in the chillies helps to burn calories and with regular consumption of the fruits actually helps in reducing weight..uummhhh, that will be a good excuse for wanting to eat more chillies :lol:


The capsaicin also helps in protecting from prostate cancer and has long been used as a topical ointment for relieving pain. This probably acts as counter irritant, ie. when the nerves are stimulated, we will forget the actual pain. It is also believed to relieve inflammation in athritis.

Another interesting findings of the health benefits of the chillies is that it help in relieving the nasal spasm, clear runny nose and free the nasal passage..uummh, why didn't I think of that when I was having a bad flu last month???




Presently, I have two matured Bird's Eye Chilli shrubs in my garden, one is planted in a 9 inch pot and placed under shade whereas the other shrub is planted out in the open, alongside with my lemongrass & citronella plants. Both shrubs produced lots of fruits but the distinct difference is in the colour of their leaves. The shrub that was planted out in the open under bright, sunny sunshine everyday, produces light-green coloured leaves whereas the pot that was placed under shade have much deeper-coloured dark green leaves..as for the level of spiciness, both are out of the scale of 10...really,really firing HOT!! phew!

With all the good benefits from chilli peppers, it is highly recommended that we include them in our daily diet...either the sweet chilli peppers or the hot,spicy ones..the choice is yours :)