Chilli peppers (Capsicum spp.)
Published: 2015-03-20Tags: люти чушки, алелопатия
Translation
This is a translation of a Bulgarian-language post. It conveys the content faithfully but is not the author's original English writing.
The Aztec "chilli," or hot peppers, were known as far back as 700 BC, but their place of origin is still a mystery. Chilli peppers are the most produced and most consumed spice in the world. The heat of different chillies depends on the climate in which they were grown.
Early South and Central American cultures used chilli peppers for various medicinal purposes, as currency, and as a means of punishing disobedient children. Chillies are thought to aid digestion, protect against colds, and cure everything from toothache to colic to indifference in love. Some facts about chillies remain indisputable:
• Chillies are rich in vitamins A and C. One gram of dried chilli contains twice the daily required amount of vitamin A.
• They are a natural preservative, slowing the oxidation of fats.
• Chillies can be used to reduce the amount of salt in cooking, or to replace it entirely in a low-sodium diet.
It is known that Columbus discovered chilli peppers in the Antilles (although he called them simply peppers), after which they spread across the whole world.
Chillies can be sown directly after the last spring cold in regions with a long warm period, or sown indoors 6 to 8 weeks before being transplanted outside. They transplant easily and are very productive.