Are you just finding out about capsaicin creams? If so, it is probably because you are struggling with pain of some sort. Caused by a variety of medical conditions, your pain could be related to post-surgical discomfort, nervous system issues, headaches, joint pain such as that from arthritis, chronic skin conditions like psoriasis and even mouth sores that are due to the use of radiation or chemotherapy.
Regardless of the cause of the pain, you probably want to get it under control, and if you are wise, you’ll want to use only natural remedies that come with no risks or side effects.So, what are the options?
The use of capsaicin cream is something many people consider, and before purchasing an OTC (over the counter) product, why not consider homemade capsaicin cream, instead? Controlling the quality of the ingredients is a wonderful way to be certain no potentially harmful chemicals have been added to the mixture and to ensure a steady supply is always on hand.
Understanding Homemade Capsaicin Cream
Whether store bought or homemade capsaicin cream, it is a good idea to understand just how this compound can work and help you manage pain or discomfort of so many different kinds. To begin with, capsaicin is a natural chemical found in hot peppers. It is the material that gives them such a satisfying level of heat when used in your favorite recipes.
However, this tasty natural compound is also a “clinically proven and safe topical therapy for pain relief”. In fact, at just a 1% solution it has shown itself to stimulate the skin, and continue to do so for a prolonged period afterward. It does this by binding with the nerve receptors, initially triggering a feeling of tingling and even pain.
Nonetheless, it is what follows the initial application that makes your store bought or homemade capsaicin cream so remarkable. Once the initial heat and reaction occurs, your skin creates an “analgesic” affect. This actually blocks pain, and if the capsaicin is left in place, it creates that appealing “heat” that helps with so many unwelcome symptoms.
As one health-oriented website explains, “If exposed to capsaicin for long enough, your pain nerve cells will become de-sensitized to the painful stimulus”. It is then going to bind to heat receptor proteins that fool your body into thinking it is being exposed to heat. How is this helpful? After a while, this depletes your body of a compound called “substance P” by scientists. It is this material that allows your nerves to send pain signals to the brain, and once it has been used up in the area where the homemade capsaicin cream is applied, it actually exhaust the nerve cells – effectively ending pain!
In addition to this beneficial response, it is also known that capsaicin is a potent anti-inflammatory as well as a natural antioxidant, which is why those struggling against cancer, severe allergies or even fighting to lose weight should consider using homemade capsaicin cream and chili peppers in the diet.
Homemade Capsaicin Cream Recipes
To ensure you enjoy the benefits of homemade capsaicin cream, we’ll look at a few recipes and how to use them to relieve pain or improve circulation.
In all instances, you can use any homemade capsaicin cream up to four times per day. You will have to grow accustomed to the burning sensation that occurs with your first few uses. You will, however, get used to it and it will even begin to decrease in severity with several uses. Remember to always apply the cream carefully, using soap to thoroughly wash it from the hands or even applying it with gloved hands, and never apply it to broken or weeping skin.
Recipe #1
In a bowl, blend five tablespoons of raw, organic coconut oil with 1 tablespoon of organic cayenne pepper. Mix until it forms a paste and then simply apply to any areas where you are experiencing pain or discomfort. You can make a larger batch of this and use for one or two days afterward, but it is best to keep supplies on hand and make each batch as needed.
Recipe #2
This is more of a classic “salve” than a cream or paste. It requires you to use a double boiler and to strain the initial blend of oil and pepper before adding it to a wax mixture. To make it, you will need two tablespoons of cayenne powder (organic) and 1/2 cup of the finest olive oil possible. Heat this in a double boiler until the oil is warm. Be sure to stir it well and then turn off the heat and allow it to sit for at least 20 minutes. Then, turn the heat to low and let it sit for an hour or so until the two ingredients have infused.
The next step requires you to line a strainer with a few layers of cheesecloth and then strain the oil into a clean vessel. Next, you will melt 1/2 ounce of beeswax in the double boiler until it is melted and then add the strained olive oil. Stir until well blended and then pour this off into a large, glass jar. Allow it to cool and solidify. This will keep for up to six months.
To use this homemade capsaicin cream, simply apply directly to the skin, and allow the heat of the skin to soften and melt it before spreading it evenly over the area. Wash the hands thoroughly with soap and water.
You now have two recipes for making homemade capsaicin cream or salve. Either approach will allow you to enjoy the natural, pain relieving properties of capsaicin. Do keep in mind that you may need a bit of time to get accustomed to the initial heat and tingling of this treatment, but most grow used to it quickly. If you experience extreme reactions, be sure you are not allergic to capsaicin by visiting your physician. Most people find it safe and effective and are soon touting its amazing benefits to all who will listen!