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Ghost pepper

The ghost pepper is a superhot chili pepper, commonly identified as *Bhut jolokia*, that is native to northeastern India.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 26, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

The ghost pepper is a superhot chili pepper, commonly identified as *Bhut jolokia*, that is native to northeastern India. It is known for extreme pungency and is used in cooking. The pepper was recognized by Guinness World Records in 2007 as the world’s hottest chili pepper.

Name and classification

The ghost pepper is the common English name for the chili pepper known as *Bhut jolokia* in Assamese and also as *naga jolokia*. It is classified as *Capsicum chinense* and belongs to the nightshade family, Solanaceae.

Origin and cultivation

The ghost pepper is native to northeastern India, where it has been cultivated and used in local cuisine. It is particularly associated with the regions of Assam, Nagaland, and Manipur.

Heat and record status

The ghost pepper is known for its extreme heat, with Scoville heat ratings commonly reported between 855,000 and 1,041,427 units. In 2007, Guinness World Records recognized it as the world’s hottest chili pepper, though it has since been surpassed by other varieties.

Culinary uses

Ghost peppers are used both fresh and dried in cooking. They are commonly added to curries, pickles, chutneys, sauces, and other highly spiced dishes as a food ingredient and spice.

Key facts

  • The ghost pepper is a superhot chili pepper native to northeastern India, also known as bhut jolokia.
  • It is classified as Capsicum chinense and belongs to the nightshade family.
  • It was recognized by Guinness World Records in 2007 as the world's hottest chili pepper, with Scoville ratings around 855,000 to 1,041,427 SHU.
  • Ghost peppers are used in cooking, both fresh and dried, in dishes such as curries, pickles, chutneys, and sauces.
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Canadian context

Ghost pepper is relevant to Canadian readers through the popularity of hot sauces, spice blends, and South Asian cuisine in Canada.

Frequently asked questions

What is a ghost pepper?
A ghost pepper is a superhot chili pepper, commonly called *Bhut jolokia*, that comes from northeastern India.
How hot is a ghost pepper?
Reported heat levels are commonly around 855,000 to 1,041,427 Scoville heat units, placing it among the world’s hottest peppers.
Is ghost pepper the same as bhut jolokia?
Yes. *Ghost pepper* is the common English name, and *bhut jolokia* is the widely used local name.
What is ghost pepper used for?
It is used in food and as a spice, including in curries, pickles, chutneys, and hot sauces.
Was ghost pepper once the hottest pepper in the world?
Yes. Guinness World Records recognized it as the world’s hottest chili pepper in 2007.

References

  1. Encyclopaedia Britannica — https://www.britannica.com/plant/ghost-pepper
    Supports: Scientific classification as *Capsicum chinense* and description as a very hot chili pepper.
  2. Wikipedia — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ghost_pepper
    Supports: Common names, origin in northeastern India, and culinary uses such as curries, pickles, and chutneys.
  3. PepperScale — https://pepperscale.com/ghost-pepper/
    Supports: Guinness World Records recognition in 2007 and typical Scoville heat range.
  4. Know the Pepper — https://www.knowthepepper.com/peppers/ghost/
    Supports: Heat range, former Guinness title, and use in cooking.