One bite of a hot pepper, and you might be convinced that capsaicin, the phytochemical responsible for that searing sensation, is actually an inflammatory. And, you’d be right in some instances. However, capsaicin is an anti-inflammatory in many other instances. This makes it a very good option for people seeking relief from painful symptoms of many different conditions. What should you know about the role of capsaicin as an anti-inflammatory?
Is Capsaicin an Anti-Inflammatory?
First, let’s get the big question out of the way. Is capsaicin actually an anti-inflammatory? How is that possible? According to a study published through the US National Library of Medicine, “Capsaicin, a major ingredient of hot pepper, was considered to exhibit an anti-inflammatory property … These findings suggest that the anti-inflammatory action of capsaicin may occur through a novel mechanism, not by a VR-1 receptor-mediated one. Both capsaicin and capsazepine may be promising drug candidates for ameliorating inflammatory diseases and cancer.”
Another study, this one published through the Journal of Food Biochemistry, states, “Capsaicin and dihydrocapsaicin are major pungent components of hot peppers with various biological activities, such as anticancer, anti-obesity and anti-inflammatory properties … Our results revealed that capsaicin and dihydrocapsaicin exert anti-inflammatory activities by activating HO-1.”
So, the role of capsaicin as an anti-inflammatory is well founded in actual scientific research. What does that mean for you, though? Actually, it means a great deal.
Topical Applications
One of the most important roles of capsaicin in medicine is in topical applications where it acts as both an anti-inflammatory and an analgesic. This allows it to be used to treat everything from muscle sprains to rheumatoid arthritis. Moreover, because it is a topical application (and non-pharmacological), it does not have the same propensity for adverse side effects. For instance, over the counter NSAIDs, like ibuprofen and acetaminophen are well known for causing damage to the liver, the stomach, and other areas.
In Supplement Form
Capsaicin as an anti-inflammatory can be taken in supplement form. In this way, you can treat many different conditions. For instance, irritable bowel syndrome is just one example. There are many others. Ingesting a supplement in the form of a capsule also allows you to consume capsaicin without dealing with the heat it’s so known for creating. Yes, you could get much of the same benefit from eating hot peppers directly, but if you’re sensitive to heat, or just don’t like it very much, dietary supplements offer a viable alternative.
With that being said, care should be exercised when using any sort of capsaicin anti-inflammatory application or supplement. Creams and ointments are well regulated, and you’ll find them available in different strengths, allowing you to choose the one that fits your needs best. Dietary supplements are another matter entirely. There is little regulation in this industry, and manufacturer claims may be patently untrue. So, it’s best to buy from a trusted brand known for quality and purity.