Ancient cultures used the spice as an antiseptic and to treat cholera and bronchitis. It is thought the burning sensation of the chilli pepper is an evolutionary ploy to stop mammals eating them.

• 在古代，辣椒还被用作防腐剂、治疗霍乱和支气管炎。有人认为，辣椒味道刺激，这可能是辣椒保护自己不被哺乳动物吃掉的一种“进化”的策略。