The habanero pepper originally came from the Amazon, then it migrated to Mexico. Now it is found in the United States. In fact, it grows well here in our area of Texas because it likes the hot, dry weather.
The habanero comes in a variety of colors. Green habaneros are the mildest because they haven't ripened yet. The most common colors are orange and red. Although, occasionally they are found in other colors; brown, white, and pink.
Healthy Benefits
- Significantly slows the growth and reproduction of human prostrate cancer cells.
- Inhibits the amount of cholesterol absorbed in the intestines.
- Raises metabolism which burns fat cells increasing the body's ability to lose weight.
- Lowers blood pressure.
- Clears mucous from nasal and bronchial passages.
- Helps diabetes by encouraging production of new cells that produce insulin.
- Has anti-inflammatory properties.
- Has an anti-ulcerative effect on stomachs infected with H-pylori.
- High in magnesium, potassium, and iron.
- A good source of Vitamins A, B, and C.
The Scoville scale measures the pungency of heat strength or capsaicin
levels in peppers. Most habanero peppers measure between 200,000 and
300,000 heat units; however, some measure as hot as 580,000 units. The
habanero is typically 60 times hotter than a jalepeno.
Cautions:
There are several cautions that should be taken when handling, preparing, or eating habaneros.
- Wear rubber or plastic gloves when handling these peppers to prevent burning or irritation of the skin.
- Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water before touching face, eyes, or other parts of the body.
- The heat of the pepper can stay in the mouth or on the tongue for up to 20 minutes or so. Bread or tortillas are best eaten for reducing the heat in the mouth. DO NOT DRINK WATER. Water will only spread the heat.
- The heat of the pepper can cause stomach and intestinal discomfort.
- Milk can be used to dilute the capsaicin oils from the skin. Soak the affected area for at least 20-30 minutes.
Wow, I would have drank some water. Need to remember that if that Habanero Fudge I got from you is too hot. :)
ReplyDeleteThanks Kay for reading. If you must drink, drink milk as it helps to dilute the oils. But it really is best to eat a bite of bread or cracker or tortilla. They soak up the oils instead of spreading them. Hope you enjoy the fudge! :)
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