GENERAL DESCRIPTION:
The hot fruit of the cayenne plant has been
used as medicine for centuries. Cayenne was frequently used to treat diseases of the circulatory system and is still traditionally used in herbal
medicine as a circulatory tonic. The active ingredient in
cayenne is a pungent substance known as capsaicin. Capsaicin
appears to alter the action of the bodily compound
(called “substance P”) that transfers pain messages to the brain, reducing pain
and inflammation by short-circuiting the pain message.
ROLE FOR ANTI-AGING:
Capsaicin is used in many over-the-counter
and prescription creams for the treatment of arthritis, shingles (herpes zoster), post-operative pain, cluster headaches, psoriasis and other
skin conditions. Some studies have also suggested that
capsaicin may protect against the damage aspirin can cause
to the stomach. Beyond this, a recent study found
that cayenne has antimicrobial effects, meaning it could be used to fight infection. When
taken orally, cayenne stimulates circulation, aids
digestion, and promotes sweating. Because perspiration works
to cool the body cayenne is sometimes used to break a
fever. There is also evidence to suggest that cayenne may be useful in the treatment of obesity.
Results of one trial showed that consumption
of 10g of cayenne pepper with meals
helped to reduce appetite, while results of another
revealed that cayenne increases the metabolism of dietary
fats.
THERAPEUTIC DAILY AMOUNT:
Cayenne is also sold in capsules, concentrated
drops and tinctures, which are taken orally. Popular products are standardized for 5 to 10 percent
capsaicin. An average dose of an oral extract standardized
for eight percent capsaicin is 100mg.
MAXIMUM SAFE LEVEL: Not
established
SIDE EFFECTS/CONTRAINDICATIONS:
Cayenne is potent and can cause serious tissue
irritation if used improperly. Be sure to wash your hands thoroughly after using capsaicin- containing creams; avoid any contact with eyes,
mucous membranes, or open wounds. Excessive ingestion may
cause gastroenteritis, liver, or kidney damage. Cayenne
is reported to possibly interfere with MAO inhibitors and antihypertensive therapy, and may
increase hepatic metabolism of drugs. Follow label
directions carefully and do not exceed the recommended
doses.
