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The chili pepper, red pepper and paprika are all species of capsicum. Capsicum is the dry powder obtained by grinding up the fruits of these plants. Capsicum oleoresin (or capsaicin oleoresin) is the liquid concentrate extracted from the dry powder. Capsicum has recently been officially defined in the USP 23 where it is defined as the dried ripe fruit of Capsicum frutescens Linne or Capsicum annum Linne. Capsaicin is the most pungent of the capsaicinoids, followed by dihydrocapsaicin. Pure capsaicin is a lipophilic colorless odorless crystalline to waxy compound. It is very soluble in fats, oils and alcohols. Capsicum also contains a red coloring matter, oleic acid, palmitic acid and stearic acid.

Capsaicin health benefits

Capsaicin acts as an antioxidant, protecting the cells of the body from damage by harmful molecules called free radicals. Capsaicin also may help prevent bacterial infections. When peppers are eaten or taken as a dietary supplement, capsaicin may improve digestion by increasing the digestive juice in the stomach and by fighting bacteria that could cause an infection. Capsaicin may help prevent heart disease. It may stimulate the cardiovascular system and lower blood cholesterol levels and blood pressure. It also helps prevent clotting and hardening of arteries (atherosclerosis). Capsaicin may also thin mucus and help move it out of the lungs. It is also thought to strengthen lung tissues and help to prevent or treat emphysema.

How to use capsaicin cream

Capsaicin cream is intended for external use on the skin only. Do not swallow the medication. The treatment typically involves the application of a topical anesthetic until the area is numb. Then the capsaicin is applied by a therapist wearing rubber gloves and a face mask. The capsaicin remains on the skin until the patient starts to feel the heat at which point it is promptly removed. The result appears to be that the nerves are overwhelmed from the burning sensation and are unable to report pain for an extended period of time.

When you first begin to use capsaicin, a warm, stinging, or burning sensation (feeling) may occur. This sensation is related to the action of capsaicin on the skin and is to be expected. Capsaicin must be used regularly every day as directed if it is to work properly. Even then, it may not relieve your pain right away. The length of time it takes to work depends on the type of pain you have. In persons with arthritis, pain relief usually begins within 1 to 2 weeks. In most persons with neuralgia, relief usually begins within 2 to 4 weeks, although with head and neck neuralgias, relief may take as long as 4 to 6 weeks.

Precautions and side effects

Do not use capsaicin topical in wounds or on skin that is burned, broken, damaged, or irritated. Contact with the eyes should be avoided, as it is quite irritating. Do not take capsaicin if you have high blood pressure or are already being treated for high blood pressure. Do not use this medicine is under the age of 2. Do not apply around eyes, nasal passages, or genitals. Common side effects is Warm, stinging, or burning feeling at the place of treatment.