- Botanical Name & Family: Capsicum annuum L., Solanaceae (nightshade family).
- Plant Description: Small perennial herb with angular stems. Highly variable species (up to 1.5 m high). Leaves broadly ovate, often wrinkled. Single, white flowers. Fruit is a small berry, oblong/ovoid, typically long and green, containing many seeds. Matures to red, yellow, or black.
- Cultivation Tips: Requires heat and sun to flourish. Frost-tender. Prefers rich, fertile, well-drained soil. Start seeds indoors. Transplant to larger pot when 4 cm tall. Ensure at least 6 hours of sunlight daily. Water 2-3 times a week (allow soil to dry slightly). Fertilize once producing fruit.
- Ayurvedic Description: Spicy, but less so than red chilies. Ayurvedic properties similar to red chilies. Raw green chilies contain more moisture and antioxidants. Balances blood sugar, reduces insulin, lowers heart rate. Good source of beta-carotene, antioxidants, endorphins. Improves digestion (Vitamin C, fiber). Good for vision (Vitamin A, C, copper). Aids weight loss (low calories, increases metabolism). Good for heart health. Excessive consumption can cause stomach irritation, diarrhea, ulcers.
Nutritional profile of seasonal vegetable (per 100g raw edible portion):
| Vegetable | Botanical Name | Calories (kcal) | Carbohydrates (g) | Protein (g) | Fat (g) | Fiber (g) | Key Vitamins | Key Minerals |
| Green Chilly | Capsicum annuum | 40 / 18 | – / 4.3 | 2 / 0.9 | 0.2 / 0.1 | – / 0.7 | C (404 mg), A (2 gm), B complex | K (340 mg), Na, Fe, Ca, Cu |