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THE FOLKLORE AND USES OF CHILI PEPPERS

published on 07/09/2024 The chili pepper, belonging to the Capsicum genus, is an ingredient with a long history, rich in both practical and symbolic uses. Most common varieties, such as jalapeños, serrano, and sweet peppers, belong to Capsicum annuum, while habaneros are part of C. chinense. Regardless of the species, chili peppers are much more than mere spices: they play an important role in many cultures as magical catalysts and spiritual protectors.

Spicy spices are often associated with two main functions: attraction or protection. Sweet-spicy spices like cinnamon and ginger are connected to money, love, and passion, while more intense spices, such as chili peppers, are used to ward off negativity or defend. Their action accelerates energetic processes, directing forces either towards or away from the user, depending on the intention.

In terms of defense, chili peppers are a powerful weapon, not only against unwanted people but also against negative entities or energies. Capsaicin, the compound responsible for the heat, is the plant's natural defense, but humans, disregarding its warning, have made it a key element in their cuisine.
In many traditions, chili peppers are used in rituals to protect against evil. In Mexico, in the Coahuila region, they are used to counteract "salting," a form of black magic similar to Hoodoo. To break this curse, a mixture of chili pepper, star anise, garlic, rue, rosemary, storax, and myrrh is burned, purifying the home.

In other cultures, chili peppers also serve as a powerful spiritual shield. The Tsáchila of Ecuador burn them to defend against a vampiric demon known as the "red demon," while the Aymara of Bolivia add them to purifying steam baths to ward off malignant energies.

Chili peppers also find a place in Hoodoo, in practices such as "foot powder," a ritual to drive away unwanted people or cause confusion. Conversely, they can also be used for curses, by throwing specifically prepared chili peppers into the target person's environment.
In terms of healing, capsaicin stimulates circulation and relieves muscle pain, finding use in many pain-relief balms.