| |
Cayenne Peppers (Capsicum annuum)
|
Cayenne
peppers from the Capsicum annuum plant have been part of the
traditional medicine of Native Americans for thousands of years. They
are also used in Indian and other Asian forms of herbal medicine. The
peppers are usually dried and powdered to produce a remedy that is
sometimes taken internally or might also be applied topically. Cayenne
peppers contain an active compound called capsaicin that gives them
medicinal value.
Capsaicin
Capsaicin
is a natural irritant that gives cayenne peppers their hot, spicy
taste. Chemically, capsaicin is a type of compound called an alkaloid,
which interacts with nerves in your tissues when it is applied to the
skin. It binds to special nerve receptors that perceive heat and, as a
result, it is perceived as being hot when applied topically. It also
reduces production of a natural chemical called substance P by your
nerves. Substance P is a compound that carries pain signals to your
brain. As a result, capsaicin might reduce your perception of pain from
the part of your body where it is applied.
Evidence
Substantial
research has examined whether topical application of either cayenne
powder or capsaicin extract is helpful in reducing muscle and other
pain. In an overview published in "Drugs" in 1997, the authors concluded
that capsaicin is effective in treating many types of pain. While
capsaicin has not been studied for pain that occurs specifically in leg
muscles, in a large review study published in the journal "Spine" in
2007, it was found effective against lower back pain involving muscles
and joints.
Recommendations and Precautions
Topical
preparations containing cayenne or purified capsaicin are available
from pharmacies or health food stores as creams or salves. Usually,
these products contain 0.025 to 0.075 percent capsaicin and are
recommended for application to the skin over the painful area, up to
four times daily. It might be necessary to apply cayenne for several
days before pain diminishes. While generally considered safe, topical
application of cayenne might cause irritation to the skin in some
people. Do not use cayenne with a heating pad and do not apply it to any
area where skin is cut or abraded. Discuss cayenne or capsaicin cream
with your doctor before using it.
Disclaimer: The information presented
herein is intended for educational purposes only. These statements have not
been evaluated by the FDA and are not intended to diagnose, cure, treat or
prevent disease. Individual results may vary, and before using any supplements,
it is always advisable to consult with your own health care provider.
|
|
