Capsaicin Health Benefits, Uses and How it Works

Capsaicin extract derived from hot chili peppers is purported to have a number of health benefits related to weight loss, pain management and circulatory function

Many people use capsaicin-containing supplements and creams for their analgesic (pain relieving) effects related to muscle, nerve and joint pain. This supplement is said to have benefits for arthritis, diabetic neuropathy, post-surgery recovery and for musculoskeletal injuries.

Capsaicin is also being investigated for its apparent heart-protective and anti-tumor properties, various digestive disorders, hyperlipidemia and alcoholism.

Capsaicin health benefits may also include appetite control, increasing metabolism, supporting skin health and promoting vascular health. Currently, the only FDA approved medicinal use for capsaicin is as a topical ointment for the temporary relief of minor pain.

Capsaicin

Pepper Extract

Joints

Appetite Control

Vitality

How It Works:

• Supports healthy digestion & blood flow
• Promotes joint function & pain relief
• Promotes appetite control & weight loss

Dosage:

Between 1000 - 2000 mg per day

Safety:

Rated Possibly Safe

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Capsaicin Health Benefits

According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, capsaicin health benefits include relieving pain, attenuating psoriasis, improving digestion and possibly decreasing appetite.

Capsaicin ointments and tinctures have long been used in folk medicine as a natural cure for pain. Research has validated this use for some types of pain syndromes.

Capsaicin is a bioactive plant chemical found in all chili peppers (capsicum).

Jalapenos, habaneros, ghost peppers, serranos and various other chilis get their hot taste from capsaicin. The more of this plant chemical that a chili pepper contains, the spicier it tastes.

Population studies have demonstrated that people who eat diets that are high in spicy foods tend to have better cardiovascular health and lower blood pressure.

Some research suggests that capsaicin may increase nitric oxide synthesis to promote vasodilation and reduce hypertension.

Capsaicin has also been researched for its benefits in reducing cluster headache attacks, clearing the sinuses of excess mucus, blood sugar regulation, increased fat burning and reducing some of the complications associated with diabetes.

The FDA has not approved the use of Capsaicin as a drug for the treatment of any of these conditions, except for as a topical cream to alleviate pain. More research is needed to validate the purported health benefits of capsaicin dietary supplements.

Capsaicin Health Benefits for Weight Loss

Many people use capsaicin as a natural weight loss aid to help them control their appetites and increase fat metabolism.

A 2015 research study from Laval University in Canada reported that this ingredient can accentuate the impact of caloric restriction on body weight loss.

Past research on capsicum health benefits for weight loss has shown effects on appetite, fat oxidation, adipogenesis and thermogenesis.

Some human studies have shown that capsaicin can increase the expenditure of energy, and reduce hunger while increasing feelings of fullness after eating. These effects might delay the onset of resistance to fat loss during participation in weight loss programs.

Further, the analgesic effects of this chili pepper extract are believed to indirectly support energy metabolism via decreased pain perception and improved sleep.

Preliminary research indicates that capsaicin may have positive effects weight loss and long-term obesity management. However, to achieve lasting weight loss results it is important to adopt diet and lifestyle changes in addition to the use of any dietary supplements.

Capsaicin Benefits for Cancer

Researchers are investigating the chemopreventive effects of capsaicin. Some evidence from in-vitro laboratories studies and trials involving animals suggests that this natural plant extract exhibits anticancer effects.

However, there has not been enough human research conducted to determine whether this supplement will be effective as a therapeutic treatment or prevention for cancer. More research is warranted to better understand its mechanisms of actions.

Noted effects of capsaicin include altering the expression of various genes which are associated with cancer cell metastasis, growth arrest, angiogenesis and survival.

Results from different research studies show that capsaicin selectively targets multiple signaling pathways in various types of cancer.

A 2016 research study evaluated the synergistic effects of capsaicin and diindolylmethane (DIM) in human cancer. DIM and its precursor indole-3-carbinol (I3C) are bioactive compounds found in cruciferous vegetables like broccoli, kale and cabbage.

Combination treatment with DIM and capsaicin induced natural cell death (apoptosis) and inhibited rapid replication (proliferation) in human colorectal cancer cells.

These natural supplements appear to work by modulating transcription of a protein complex called NF-kB, tumor-suppressor protein p53, as well as genes that control apoptosis.

Capsaicin has not been approved as a medicine for the prevention or treatment of cancer by the FDA in the USA. More extensive studies are needed to understand if and how capsaicin might help to combat cancer in humans.

Capsaicin Skin Benefits

Some of the most common conditions dermatologists treat include pruritus (severe itching) and neurogenic pain.

Capsaicin-containing skin products are used, singly or adjunctly, as low-risk options to treat these and related conditions.

Some of these skin conditions include alopecia, postherpetic neuralgia, psoriasis and chromhidrosis.

Capsaicin products for improving skin health are available in several forms including creams, liquids, gels, ointments, sticks, patches and lotions.

Capsaicin and TRPV1

In order to understand how capsaicin may work in the body, it is important to learn about a cellular receptor found throughout body known as TRPV1.

TRPV1 stands for transient receptor potential vanilloid type 1; a member of the TRP superfamily of ion channels.

The majority of health benefits associated with capsaicin are linked to activation of TRPV1 cation (positive ion) channels.

TRPV1 receptors are found in various cells, tissues and organs throughout the body. Capsaicin is able to stimulate TRPV1 receptors, which seems to activate a number of different effects in the body.

According to a 2016 review by Tulane University, TRPV1 is “associated with control of weight, pancreatic function, hormone secretion, thermogenesis, and neuronal function.”

This review concluded that TRPV1 has “beneficial effects on whole body metabolism including glucose homeostasis”.

Many of the benefits linked to capsaicin seem to be attributed to increased TRPV1 activity, but more research is needed to understand this pathway and its physiological effects.

Negative Effects of Capsaicin Supplements

Capsaicin may be associated with several different health benefits, but there is also a risk of side effects that can occur when taking any dietary supplements.

Some users of oral capsaicin supplements or products experience digestive problems like gas, bloating and diarrhea. Those who use capsaicin topically may experience stinging or burning at application sites.

It is possible for capsaicin to interact with certain medications and herbal supplements. Some of these include ACE inhibitors, antiplatelets and antidiabetic medications.

The majority of users of capsaicin dietary supplements do not experience adverse effects. However, it is still recommended to seek medical advice before using capsaicin supplements to learn about any health benefits and risks as they may pertain to you.

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