Capsaicin
18 benefits mapped to clinical evidence across supplements.
Dose per serving from research
24 study groups in 16 studies say how much Capsaicin participants took a day.
These are the doses the studies gave. They are not a recommendation.
Most common: 1 mg to 2.5 mg, 25% of 24 study groups.
| Daily dose | Study groups |
|---|---|
| 500 mcg or less | 1 |
| 500 mcg to 1 mg | 4 |
| 1 mg to 2.5 mg | 6 |
| 2.5 mg to 5 mg | 2 |
| 5 mg to 10 mg | 2 |
| 10 mg to 25 mg | 3 |
| 25 mg to 50 mg | 0 |
| 50 mg to 100 mg | 1 |
| 100 mg to 250 mg | 1 |
| 250 mg to 500 mg | 0 |
| 500 mg to 1 g | 0 |
| 1 g to 2.5 g | 1 |
| 2.5 g to 5 g | 0 |
| 5 g to 10 g | 3 |
Benefit Evidence
Anti-inflammatory skin flare ↓
CRP, eosinophils ↓
Sensory inflammation ↓
Research sources
Pain relief (51)
- Analysis of 50 patients with atypical odontalgia. A preliminary report on pharmacological procedures for diagnosis and treatment
PubMed ID: 9474610
Open series: topical capsaicin relieved atypical tooth pain in most of 50 patients (symptomatic benefit reported).
- Topical application of doxepin hydrochloride, capsaicin and a combination of both produces analgesia in chronic human neuropathic pain: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study
PubMed ID: 10848721
Randomized double-blind trial: topical 0.025% capsaicin reduced neuropathic pain measures and improved onset when combined with doxepin.
- The analgesic efficacy of topical capsaicin is enhanced by glyceryl trinitrate in painful osteoarthritis: a randomized, double blind, placebo controlled study
PubMed ID: 11124007
Large RCT: topical 0.025% capsaicin modestly reduced osteoarthritis pain and decreased analgesic consumption (clinical pain relief).
- Capsicum pain plaster in chronic non-specific low back pain
PubMed ID: 11765591
Large randomized double-blind trial: topical capsicum plaster produced clinically meaningful reductions in chronic low back pain vs placebo (notable responder rate and pain score decreases).
- Topical capsaicin--a novel and effective treatment for idiopathic intractable pruritus ani: a randomised, placebo controlled, crossover study
PubMed ID: 12912865
Topical capsaicin ointment relieved chronic anal itch in the majority of patients compared with placebo—strong symptomatic benefit for localized neuropathic/pruritic pain.
- Systemic capsaicin for burning mouth syndrome: short-term results of a pilot study
PubMed ID: 14720197
Oral capsaicin produced modest short-term relief in burning mouth syndrome (but with frequent GI adverse effects), showing direct short-term analgesic effect.
- Controlled trial of high-concentration capsaicin patch for treatment of painful HIV neuropathy
PubMed ID: 18541884
Single high‑dose capsaicin patch produced clinically meaningful and sustained pain reduction in HIV neuropathy (robust analgesic effect).
- NGX-4010, a high-concentration capsaicin patch, for the treatment of postherpetic neuralgia: a randomised, double-blind study
PubMed ID: 18977178
8% capsaicin patch gave rapid and sustained pain relief in postherpetic neuralgia (large RCT, strong temporary/chronic pain benefit).
- The effect of wound instillation of a novel purified capsaicin formulation on postherniotomy pain: a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled study
PubMed ID: 18635499
Local intraoperative capsaicin modestly reduced postoperative hernia pain for the first 3–4 days (short-term analgesia).
- A multicenter, randomized, double-blind, controlled dose finding study of NGX-4010, a high-concentration capsaicin patch, for the treatment of postherpetic neuralgia
PubMed ID: 20655809
Large RCT in PHN showed a single high‑concentration capsaicin patch produced significant, sustained reductions in neuropathic pain versus control.
- Effect of duration of postherpetic neuralgia on efficacy analyses in a multicenter, randomized, controlled study of NGX-4010, an 8% capsaicin patch evaluated for the treatment of postherpetic neuralgia
PubMed ID: 20937130
Analysis showed clearer capsaicin patch benefit for longer‑standing PHN (subgroup), supporting analgesic efficacy in appropriate patients.
- A multicenter, randomized, double-blind, controlled study of NGX-4010, a high-concentration capsaicin patch, for the treatment of postherpetic neuralgia
PubMed ID: 21087403
Confirmatory Phase‑3 trial: single 60‑min high‑dose patch produced greater and durable pain relief versus low‑dose control.
- Efficacy of symptomatic control of knee osteoarthritis with 0.0125% of capsaicin versus placebo
PubMed ID: 20973322
Randomized double‑blind crossover trial: low‑concentration capsaicin gel reduced pain and improved function in knee osteoarthritis.
- Topical capsaicin therapy for uremic pruritus in patients on hemodialysis
PubMed ID: 20404425
Topical capsaicin 0.03% markedly reduced pruritus (itch) in hemodialysis patients vs placebo.
- Effectiveness and safety of topical capsaicin cream in the treatment of chronic soft tissue pain
PubMed ID: 21104944
Large randomized double‑blind trial: topical capsaicin 0.05% significantly reduced chronic soft‑tissue pain vs placebo over 3 weeks.
- Civamide cream 0.075% in patients with osteoarthritis of the knee: a 12-week randomized controlled clinical trial with a longterm extension
PubMed ID: 22089461
Civamide (capsaicin analog) cream improved knee osteoarthritis pain and function over 12 weeks vs control.
- NGX-4010, a capsaicin 8% dermal patch, administered alone or in combination with systemic neuropathic pain medications, reduces pain in patients with postherpetic neuralgia
PubMed ID: 21753727
High‑concentration (8%) capsaicin patch provided durable pain reductions in postherpetic neuralgia trials for up to 12 weeks.
- A randomized, double-blind, controlled study of NGX-4010, a capsaicin 8% dermal patch, for the treatment of painful HIV-associated distal sensory polyneuropathy
PubMed ID: 22067661
High-dose capsaicin patch produced modest pain reductions and higher patient-reported improvement vs control (clinical analgesia trend).
- Short-term efficacy of topical capsaicin therapy in severely affected fibromyalgia patients
PubMed ID: 22842953
Topical capsaicin 0.075% thrice daily reduced muscular pain and improved some function in fibromyalgia short-term.
- A randomized placebo-controlled clinical trial of phonophoresis for the treatment of chronic neck pain
PubMed ID: 24374357
Phonophoresis delivering capsaicin plus exercise reduced neck pain and disability more than exercise alone.
- A comparative evaluation of local application of the combination of eutectic mixture of local anesthetics and capsaicin for attenuation of venipuncture pain
PubMed ID: 23400973
Topical capsaicin ointment (with/without EMLA) significantly increased painless venipuncture rates and lowered pain scores.
- Treatment of peripheral neuropathic pain by topical capsaicin: Impact of pre-existing pain in the QUEPP-study
PubMed ID: 24259265
Large real-world cohort: single 8% capsaicin patch produced substantial reductions in neuropathic pain and improved responder rates.
- A novel approach to identify responder subgroups and predictors of response to low- and high-dose capsaicin patches in postherpetic neuralgia
PubMed ID: 23650124
Pooled RCT data: 8% capsaicin patch produced more full responders/fewer non-responders vs low-dose control in postherpetic neuralgia.
- A capsaicin (8%) patch in the treatment of severe persistent inguinal postherniorrhaphy pain: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial
PubMed ID: 25290151
8% capsaicin patch in post‑hernia chronic groin pain showed a non‑significant trend toward pain relief; suggests possible benefit.
- NGX-4010, a capsaicin 8% dermal patch, for the treatment of painful HIV-associated distal sensory polyneuropathy: results of a 52-week open-label study
PubMed ID: 23446088
Large human open‑label series: repeated 8% capsaicin patch treatments gave consistent ~23–27% reductions in neuropathic pain.
- Efficacy and safety of nicoboxil/nonivamide ointment for the treatment of acute pain in the low back - A randomized, controlled trial
PubMed ID: 25929250
Large RCT of a nonivamide (capsaicin-like) topical combination produced substantially larger and faster reductions in acute low back pain vs placebo (robust analgesic effect).
- Capsaicin 8% Patch in Painful Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Study
PubMed ID: 27746370
Large RCT: single 8% capsaicin patch produced modest but significant pain reduction and faster response vs placebo in diabetic peripheral neuropathy (strong clinical evidence for topical analgesia).
- A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial of injected capsaicin for pain in Morton's neuroma
PubMed ID: 26963851
Randomized placebo-controlled injection of capsaicin into Morton's neuroma reduced foot pain and improved function over 4 weeks (strong evidence for local analgesia).
- Capsaicin 8% patch repeat treatment plus standard of care (SOC) versus SOC alone in painful diabetic peripheral neuropathy: a randomised, 52-week, open-label, safety study
PubMed ID: 27919222
52‑week safety study of repeated 8% patch treatments showed improvements in QoL and neuropathy scores with no sensory deterioration—supports sustained analgesic benefit and tolerability.
- Efficacy and Safety of 0.625% and 1.25% Capsaicin Patch in Peripheral Neuropathic Pain: Multi-Center, Randomized, and Semi-Double Blind Controlled Study
PubMed ID: 28158151
Capsaicin patches reduced peripheral neuropathic pain vs baseline/placebo in clinical trial (topical analgesia).
- Comparison of topical capsaicin and topical turpentine Oil for treatment of painful diabetic neuropathy
PubMed ID: 29076666
Large randomized study in diabetic neuropathy found topical capsaicin cream reduced pain over 3 months (clinical analgesic effect).
- Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Trial of Intraarticular Trans-Capsaicin for Pain Associated With Osteoarthritis of the Knee
PubMed ID: 30888737
Large RCT: single intraarticular trans‑capsaicin injection produced clinically meaningful, durable reductions in knee OA pain (strong analgesic evidence).
- [Capsaicin topical cream (8%) for the treatment of myofascial pain syndrome]
PubMed ID: 31519301
Single 8% topical capsaicin application reduced myofascial pain for up to ~60 days in RCT (strong topical analgesic effect despite transient burning).
- Comparison of topical capsaicin and topical piroxicam in the treatment of acute trauma-induced pain: A randomized double-blind trial
PubMed ID: 32739846
Well‑powered RCT: topical capsaicin delivered greater pain reduction than topical piroxicam for acute musculoskeletal trauma over 72 h (direct analgesic benefit).
- Safety and Efficacy of Vocacapsaicin for Management of Postsurgical Pain: A Randomized Clinical Trial
PubMed ID: 38662910
Vocacapsaicin given intraoperatively produced large, dose-related reductions in post‑operative pain and opioid consumption.
- Effect of Cooling Capsaicin Application Site on Reducing Burning Sensation in Neuropathic Pain Patients: A Randomized Controlled Trial
PubMed ID: 39532578
Cooling markedly reduced the acute burning sensation after 8% capsaicin patch application (acute symptom relief).
- Therapeutic Value of Lactobacillus gasseri 345A in Chronic Constipation
PubMed ID: 40033155
Probiotic significantly reduced pain at defecation in constipated women; capsaicin/TRPV1 used as mechanistic tool — supports visceral pain reduction.
- An experimental bleaching gel containing a nanocomposite reduces the intensity of postoperative tooth sensitivity: A randomized, triple blind clinical trial
PubMed ID: 40268115
Hydroxyapatite–capsaicin nanocomposite lowered tooth-sensitivity intensity after bleaching without affecting whitening efficacy — clinically meaningful topical analgesia.
- Clinical Observation of a Novel Moisturizing Cream for Reducing Neurovascular Hyper-Reactivity in Sensitive Skin
PubMed ID: 40736038
Novel moisturizer decreased pruritus and increased C-fiber threshold on capsaicin-provocation testing — evidence of topical symptom reduction.
- A topical nociceutical formulation ameliorates chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy: a pilot randomized clinical study
PubMed ID: 41032160
Topical vanilloid-like cream decreased incidence/severity and daily-life impact of chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy — substantial symptomatic relief.
- Inducible desensitization to capsaicin with repeated low-dose exposure in human volunteers
PubMed ID: 38135109
Repeated low-dose oral capsaicin rinses (≈28 exposures) in humans reduced perceived oral burn by ~24–31%—strong human evidence for desensitization/reduced nociception.
- Different therapeutic strategies for burning mouth syndrome: preliminary data
PubMed ID: 20701667
Clinical trial: topical capsaicin reduced burning mouth syndrome symptoms over 60 days versus control—strong direct evidence for topical pain relief (partly transient after cessation).
- Capsaicin 8% patch versus oral pregabalin in patients with peripheral neuropathic pain
PubMed ID: 26581442
Large RCT: single‑application capsaicin 8% patch provided clinically meaningful pain relief in neuropathic pain (non‑inferior to pregabalin) with faster onset and higher satisfaction.
- Superiority of capsaicin 8% patch versus oral pregabalin on dynamic mechanical allodynia in patients with peripheral neuropathic pain
PubMed ID: 29194851
Secondary analysis of ELEVATE: capsaicin 8% patch reduced dynamic mechanical allodynia intensity and area more than pregabalin — strong evidence for topical pain relief.
- Treatment of arthritis with topical capsaicin: a double-blind trial
PubMed ID: 1954640
Large RCT: topical capsaicin cream produced substantial, statistically significant reductions in arthritis pain (RA/OA) versus placebo.
- Treatment of painful diabetic neuropathy with topical capsaicin. A multicenter, double-blind, vehicle-controlled study. The Capsaicin Study Group
PubMed ID: 1953227
Large multicenter randomized vehicle‑controlled trial showing modest‑to‑moderate pain reductions in diabetic neuropathy with topical capsaicin.
- Effect of treatment with capsaicin on daily activities of patients with painful diabetic neuropathy. Capsaicin Study Group
PubMed ID: 1547671
Large RCT (n=277): 0.075% capsaicin cream reduced pain and improved function/sleep in painful diabetic neuropathy versus vehicle.
- A randomized vehicle-controlled trial of topical capsaicin in the treatment of postherpetic neuralgia
PubMed ID: 8364943
Large randomized trial: topical capsaicin improved pain and function in postherpetic neuralgia with sustained long‑term benefits.
- A double-blind comparison of topical capsaicin and oral amitriptyline in painful diabetic neuropathy
PubMed ID: 10150323
Topical capsaicin comparable to oral amitriptyline for diabetic neuropathy with fewer systemic effects — strong analgesic evidence.
- Cutaneous injection of the capsaicin analogue, NE-21610, produces analgesia to heat but not to mechanical stimuli in man
PubMed ID: 7644243
Injected capsaicin analogue produced dose-dependent, prolonged reduction in heat pain lasting days–weeks — strong experimental analgesia.
- Phase III placebo-controlled trial of capsaicin cream in the management of surgical neuropathic pain in cancer patients
PubMed ID: 9256142
Large randomized trial: topical 0.075% capsaicin produced substantial neuropathic pain reduction vs placebo (clear clinical benefit).
Skin soothing (19)
- A double-blind comparison of topical capsaicin and oral amitriptyline in painful diabetic neuropathy
PubMed ID: 10150323
Topical capsaicin cream reduced diabetic neuropathy pain and improved function — topical analgesic/soothing effect.
- Management of triggering factor effects in sensitive skin syndrome with a dermo-cosmetic product
PubMed ID: 39291708
Dermo‑cosmetic significantly reduced capsaicin‑provoked burning/stinging duration and lowered inflammatory biomarkers in human tests.
- Effect of Cooling Capsaicin Application Site on Reducing Burning Sensation in Neuropathic Pain Patients: A Randomized Controlled Trial
PubMed ID: 39532578
Cooling during high‑conc capsaicin patch application strongly reduced immediate burning sensation (symptom relief).
- Study of the soothing effects of troxerutin in alleviating skin sensitivity
PubMed ID: 38720512
Troxerutin inhibited TRPV1 responses and reduced capsaicin‑induced redness/sensory intensity in small clinical tests.
- Comparison of topical capsaicin and topical turpentine Oil for treatment of painful diabetic neuropathy
PubMed ID: 29076666
Topical capsaicin cream reduced pain in diabetic neuropathy patients (cutaneous application with symptomatic relief).
- Efficacy and Safety of 0.625% and 1.25% Capsaicin Patch in Peripheral Neuropathic Pain: Multi-Center, Randomized, and Semi-Double Blind Controlled Study
PubMed ID: 28158151
Capsaicin patches reduced neuropathic pain but commonly caused transient local skin reactions — net topical soothing for neuropathic pain in many patients.
- Efficacy and safety of nicoboxil/nonivamide ointment for the treatment of acute pain in the low back - A randomized, controlled trial
PubMed ID: 25929250
Topical nonivamide (capsaicin-like) in combination produced clinically meaningful topical analgesia and improved mobility, consistent with topical soothing/analgesic effects.
- NGX-4010, a capsaicin 8% dermal patch, for the treatment of painful HIV-associated distal sensory polyneuropathy: results of a 52-week open-label study
PubMed ID: 23446088
High‑concentration topical capsaicin patch produced sustained reductions in neuropathic pain (topical analgesic effect) in many patients.
- Civamide cream 0.075% in patients with osteoarthritis of the knee: a 12-week randomized controlled clinical trial with a longterm extension
PubMed ID: 22089461
Civamide cream improved OA pain and function with durable benefits and topical tolerability (capsaicin analog).
- Effectiveness and safety of topical capsaicin cream in the treatment of chronic soft tissue pain
PubMed ID: 21104944
Topical capsaicin cream 0.05% significantly reduced chronic soft‑tissue pain vs placebo — strong topical symptomatic benefit.
- Topical capsaicin therapy for uremic pruritus in patients on hemodialysis
PubMed ID: 20404425
Topical capsaicin 0.03% produced large clinically meaningful reductions in uraemic pruritus vs placebo.
- Topical capsaicin--a novel and effective treatment for idiopathic intractable pruritus ani: a randomised, placebo controlled, crossover study
PubMed ID: 12912865
Topical capsaicin ointment relieved chronic anal pruritus in ~70% of patients versus placebo—strong topical soothing effect for pruritus.
- Capsicum pain plaster in chronic non-specific low back pain
PubMed ID: 11765591
Topical capsicum plaster reduced chronic low back pain and improved function—topical therapeutic effect relevant to skin/nerve symptom relief.
- Analysis of 50 patients with atypical odontalgia. A preliminary report on pharmacological procedures for diagnosis and treatment
PubMed ID: 9474610
Topical capsaicin relieved oral mucosal (tooth) pain in many patients; topical analgesic/soothing effect demonstrated on mucosa.
- Phase III placebo-controlled trial of capsaicin cream in the management of surgical neuropathic pain in cancer patients
PubMed ID: 9256142
Topical capsaicin produced large neuropathic pain relief (despite local burning) — clinically soothes nociceptive skin symptoms in many patients.
- Clinical Observation of a Novel Moisturizing Cream for Reducing Neurovascular Hyper-Reactivity in Sensitive Skin
PubMed ID: 40736038
Moisturizer reduced TEWL, erythema and provoked-sensitivity (capsaicin/lactic acid) — clear skin-soothing/barrier benefit.
- A double-blind evaluation of topical capsaicin in pruritic psoriasis
PubMed ID: 7688774
Large double‑blind trial: topical capsaicin reduced pruritus and improved psoriasis severity vs vehicle — strong evidence for topical skin symptom relief.
- Different therapeutic strategies for burning mouth syndrome: preliminary data
PubMed ID: 20701667
Topical capsaicin reduced burning mouth syndrome symptoms for 60 days—demonstrates topical mucosal analgesia/soothing in a pain condition (effect partly transient).
- A topical nociceutical formulation ameliorates chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy: a pilot randomized clinical study
PubMed ID: 41032160
Topical nociceutical reduced palmar CIPN incidence and symptom burden — topical TRPV-modulating formulation with soothing effects on skin/neuropathy symptoms.
Inflammation (15)
- Management of triggering factor effects in sensitive skin syndrome with a dermo-cosmetic product
PubMed ID: 39291708
Dermo‑cosmetic reduced capsaicin-provoked redness and lowered inflammation biomarkers (IL‑1α, S100A8/9) in human tests.
- A topical nociceutical formulation ameliorates chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy: a pilot randomized clinical study
PubMed ID: 41032160
Topical soft-vanilloid reduced incidence/severity of chemotherapy-induced neuropathy, consistent with TRPV-mediated symptom reduction that can reflect reduced neurogenic inflammation.
- Clinical Observation of a Novel Moisturizing Cream for Reducing Neurovascular Hyper-Reactivity in Sensitive Skin
PubMed ID: 40736038
Cream reduced facial erythema and TEWL and decreased capsaicin-evoked sensitivity, consistent with anti-inflammatory/barrier effects.
- Clinical testing of three novel transient receptor potential cation channel subfamily V member 1 antagonists in a pharmacodynamic intradermal capsaicin model
PubMed ID: 29504187
TRPV1 antagonists dose‑dependently reduced capsaicin‑induced flare (microvascular inflammation) and pain in humans—mechanistic evidence around TRPV1-mediated inflammation.
- Enhanced chemosensory sensitivity in patients with idiopathic rhinitis and its reversal by nasal capsaicin treatment
PubMed ID: 28389389
Nasal capsaicin spray increased trigeminal thresholds and reduced idiopathic rhinitis symptoms/nasal hyperreactivity — anti‑hyperreactivity/inflammatory effect.
- A comparison of mindfulness-based stress reduction and an active control in modulation of neurogenic inflammation
PubMed ID: 23092711
Mindfulness training attenuated capsaicin-evoked neurogenic skin inflammation and blister cytokines (TNF‑α, IL‑8).
- Civamide cream 0.075% in patients with osteoarthritis of the knee: a 12-week randomized controlled clinical trial with a longterm extension
PubMed ID: 22089461
Topical civamide improved OA pain/function over 12 weeks — consistent with reduced nociceptive/inflammatory joint symptoms.
- NGX-4010, a high-concentration capsaicin patch, for the treatment of postherpetic neuralgia: a randomised, double-blind study
PubMed ID: 18977178
8% capsaicin patch reduced pain in PHN, consistent with reduced neurogenic inflammatory pain mechanisms.
- Controlled trial of high-concentration capsaicin patch for treatment of painful HIV neuropathy
PubMed ID: 18541884
High‑concentration capsaicin patch produced clinically meaningful pain relief in neuropathic conditions likely involving reduced neurogenic nociceptive/inflammatory signalling.
- Intranasal capsaicin reduces nasal hyperreactivity in idiopathic rhinitis: a double-blind randomized application regimen study
PubMed ID: 12859554
Intranasal capsaicin reduced nasal hyperreactivity and symptoms long-term in idiopathic rhinitis—consistent with reduction of neurogenic inflammation.
- Intravesical resiniferatoxin for refractory detrusor hyperreflexia: a multicenter, blinded, randomized, placebo-controlled trial
PubMed ID: 14992337
Intravesical resiniferatoxin (TRPV1 agonist) produced durable clinical improvement in overactive bladder suggesting modulation of sensory/inflammatory processes.
- Local treatment of nasal polyposis with capsaicin: preliminary findings
PubMed ID: 8882755
Weekly local capsaicin reduced nasal hyperreactivity and polyp size — evidence for decreased local inflammatory disease activity.
- A double-blind evaluation of topical capsaicin in pruritic psoriasis
PubMed ID: 7688774
Topical capsaicin improved psoriasis severity and pruritus vs vehicle, consistent with clinically meaningful anti‑inflammatory / neurogenic modulation in skin disease.
- Gastroprotection induced by capsaicin in healthy human subjects
PubMed ID: 16127749
Low‑dose capsaicin reduced gastric acid output and prevented ethanol/indomethacin mucosal injury, indicating protective/anti‑inflammatory gastric effects.
- Capsaicin Supplementation Improved Risk Factors of Coronary Heart Disease in Individuals with Low HDL-C Levels
PubMed ID: 28930174
3‑month RCT: oral capsaicin modestly lowered CRP and triglycerides, consistent with an anti-inflammatory effect.
Respiratory comfort (12)
- [Effect of intranasal treatment with capsaicin on polyp recurrence after polypectomy and ethmoidectomy]
PubMed ID: 12563891
Post‑polypectomy intranasal capsaicin (weekly) markedly reduced subjective nasal obstruction and polyp recurrence versus vehicle.
- A randomized, double-blind, parallel trial comparing capsaicin nasal spray with placebo in subjects with a significant component of nonallergic rhinitis
PubMed ID: 21802026
Daily low‑concentration intranasal capsaicin with eucalyptol reduced nasal symptoms and provided rapid and sustained relief vs placebo — supports respiratory/nasal comfort.
- Intranasal Capsicum spray in idiopathic rhinitis: a randomized prospective application regimen trial
PubMed ID: 19012048
Intranasal capsicum spray significantly reduced idiopathic (non‑allergic) rhinitis symptoms versus placebo in a randomized trial.
- Capsaicin troche for swallowing dysfunction in older people
PubMed ID: 15877558
Capsaicin lozenges given with meals to older adults improved swallowing reflex latency and airway protective reflexes—clinically relevant for respiratory safety/comfort.
- Intranasal capsaicin reduces nasal hyperreactivity in idiopathic rhinitis: a double-blind randomized application regimen study
PubMed ID: 12859554
A practical intranasal capsaicin regimen produced durable reductions in nasal symptoms and hyperreactivity in nonallergic rhinitis—direct clinical respiratory benefit of capsaicin treatment.
- Local treatment of nasal polyposis with capsaicin: preliminary findings
PubMed ID: 8882755
Weekly local nasal capsaicin improved symptoms and hyperreactivity in patients with nasal hyperreactivity and polyps (direct therapeutic respiratory benefit).
- Pregabalin and Speech Pathology Combination Therapy for Refractory Chronic Cough: A Randomized Controlled Trial
PubMed ID: 26447687
In chronic cough RCT adding pregabalin increased capsaicin cough threshold and improved cough outcomes — evidence that modulating capsaicin/TRPV1 sensitivity influences respiratory symptom burden (indirectly relevant to capsaicin pathway).
- Effect of intranasal treatment with capsaicin on the recurrence of polyps after polypectomy and ethmoidectomy
PubMed ID: 10779188
Double‑blind trial: five intranasal capsaicin treatments reduced nasal obstruction and polyp staging vs control.
- Effect of Capsaicin Atomization on Cough and Swallowing Function in Patients With Hemorrhagic Stroke: A Randomized Controlled Trial
PubMed ID: 36716393
Nebulized capsaicin in hemorrhagic stroke patients increased cough effort, reduced postswallow residue and raised substance P, aiding rehabilitation markers of airway protection.
- Effect of Capsaicin Atomization-Induced Cough on Sputum Excretion in Tracheotomized Patients After Hemorrhagic Stroke: A Randomized Controlled Trial
PubMed ID: 34694869
Nebulized capsaicin increased cough and sputum clearance in tracheotomized post-stroke patients, improving airway clearance.
- Enhanced chemosensory sensitivity in patients with idiopathic rhinitis and its reversal by nasal capsaicin treatment
PubMed ID: 28389389
Nasal capsaicin treatment improved idiopathic rhinitis thresholds and symptoms up to 12 weeks — clear respiratory symptom benefit.
- Cough reduction using capsaicin
PubMed ID: 25468411
Randomized double‑blind crossover: oral capsaicin powder for 4 weeks raised cough thresholds and reduced cough symptoms in unexplained irritant cough.
Digestive support (10)
- A Comparative Study Between Two Sensory Stimulation Strategies After Two Weeks Treatment on Older Patients with Oropharyngeal Dysphagia
PubMed ID: 27503566
Ten days of low-dose capsaicin sensory stimulation improved swallow safety and reduced aspiration severity in older dysphagia patients (direct digestive‑entry benefit).
- Evaluation of capsaicin ointment at the Korean hand acupressure point K-D2 for prevention of postoperative nausea and vomiting
PubMed ID: 16288616
Topical capsaicin at a hand acupressure point before surgery significantly reduced postoperative nausea/vomiting and need for rescue antiemetic, directly supporting better postoperative digestion/retention.
- The treatment of functional dyspepsia with red pepper
PubMed ID: 12030948
Randomized double-blind trial: daily oral red pepper powder substantially reduced functional dyspepsia symptoms vs placebo—strong direct evidence for improved digestive comfort.
- Gastroprotection induced by capsaicin in healthy human subjects
PubMed ID: 16127749
Low‑dose capsaicin reduced basal acid output and protected gastric mucosa from ethanol/NSAID injury—direct digestive/gastric benefits.
- Effect of red pepper on symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome: preliminary study
PubMed ID: 21573941
Enteric‑coated red pepper reduced abdominal pain and bloating in IBS patients vs placebo (small randomized trial), supporting symptomatic digestive benefit.
- Capsaicin troche for swallowing dysfunction in older people
PubMed ID: 15877558
Capsaicin lozenges given with meals improved swallowing reflex latency and cough-related airway protection in older adults—clinically relevant benefit for safe swallowing/ingestion.
- A Pilot Trial of Topical Capsaicin Cream for Treatment of Cannabinoid Hyperemesis Syndrome
PubMed ID: 32569429
Topical capsaicin cream rapidly reduced nausea in cannabinoid hyperemesis—a clear gastrointestinal symptom benefit.
- Therapeutic Value of Lactobacillus gasseri 345A in Chronic Constipation
PubMed ID: 40033155
In constipated women the tested probiotic tended to increase bowel movements and significantly reduced defecation pain — direct digestion/GI benefit (mechanism involved TRPV1).
- Effects of capsaicin on swallowing function in stroke patients with dysphagia: A randomized controlled trial
PubMed ID: 30956054
Regular capsaicin supplementation plus tactile stimulation markedly improved swallowing recovery in post‑stroke dysphagia—directly relevant to digestion/swallowing function.
- Effects of Capsaicin on Older Patients with Oropharyngeal Dysphagia: A Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled, Crossover Study
PubMed ID: 28319947
Small capsaicin-containing film improved swallowing safety/efficacy and increased salivary substance P in older patients (direct effect on swallowing phase of digestion).
Illness recovery (6)
- Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Trial of Intraarticular Trans-Capsaicin for Pain Associated With Osteoarthritis of the Knee
PubMed ID: 30888737
Single intraarticular trans‑capsaicin injection produced durable reductions in knee OA pain and improved function up to 24 weeks, facilitating functional recovery.
- A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial of injected capsaicin for pain in Morton's neuroma
PubMed ID: 26963851
Single injection of capsaicin reduced foot pain and improved function over 4 weeks, supporting faster symptomatic recovery for Morton's neuroma.
- Efficacy and safety of nicoboxil/nonivamide ointment for the treatment of acute pain in the low back - A randomized, controlled trial
PubMed ID: 25929250
Nonivamide (capsaicin-like) + nicoboxil ointment produced faster pain relief and improved mobility vs placebo, indicating faster functional recovery in acute low back pain.
- The effect of wound instillation of a novel purified capsaicin formulation on postherniotomy pain: a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled study
PubMed ID: 18635499
Single intraoperative capsaicin dose modestly reduced postoperative pain for first 3–4 days (may speed early recovery).
- Effects of capsaicin on swallowing function in stroke patients with dysphagia: A randomized controlled trial
PubMed ID: 30956054
3‑week natural capsaicin supplementation plus tactile stimulation produced markedly higher swallowing‑recovery responder rates post‑stroke (direct recovery benefit).
- Safety and Efficacy of Vocacapsaicin for Management of Postsurgical Pain: A Randomized Clinical Trial
PubMed ID: 38662910
Intraoperative vocacapsaicin markedly lowered postoperative pain and opioid use, likely aiding functional recovery.
Mucus clearance (7)
- A randomized, double-blind, parallel trial comparing capsaicin nasal spray with placebo in subjects with a significant component of nonallergic rhinitis
PubMed ID: 21802026
Intranasal capsaicin (with eucalyptol) produced rapid relief of nasal symptoms including congestion versus placebo in a randomized trial.
- Enhanced chemosensory sensitivity in patients with idiopathic rhinitis and its reversal by nasal capsaicin treatment
PubMed ID: 28389389
Nasal capsaicin improved idiopathic rhinitis symptoms and increased trigeminal thresholds, reducing nasal hyperreactivity and congestion symptoms.
- Intranasal Capsicum spray in idiopathic rhinitis: a randomized prospective application regimen trial
PubMed ID: 19012048
Intranasal capsicum spray reduced idiopathic rhinitis symptom frequency (clinical improvement) in a randomized trial.
- Intranasal capsaicin reduces nasal hyperreactivity in idiopathic rhinitis: a double-blind randomized application regimen study
PubMed ID: 12859554
Intranasal capsaicin regimen reduced nasal symptom severity (rhinorrhea and blockage) and decreased nasal hyperreactivity for months in idiopathic rhinitis—strong direct support for reduced congestion.
- Local treatment of nasal polyposis with capsaicin: preliminary findings
PubMed ID: 8882755
Weekly local capsaicin improved nasal hyperreactivity and symptoms, consistent with reduced congestion in affected patients.
- Effect of intranasal treatment with capsaicin on the recurrence of polyps after polypectomy and ethmoidectomy
PubMed ID: 10779188
Double‑blind trial: multiple intranasal capsaicin treatments reduced subjective nasal airway resistance and polyp size vs vehicle.
- [Effect of intranasal treatment with capsaicin on polyp recurrence after polypectomy and ethmoidectomy]
PubMed ID: 12563891
Randomized post‑polypectomy weekly intranasal capsaicin substantially reduced nasal obstruction and polyp recurrence.
Weight management (5)
- Effects of twelve weeks of capsaicinoid supplementation on body composition, appetite and self-reported caloric intake in overweight individuals
PubMed ID: 28235621
12-week capsaicinoid supplementation lowered self-reported caloric intake and reduced waist:hip ratio at low dose — supports weight management.
- Effects of novel capsinoid treatment on fatness and energy metabolism in humans: possible pharmacogenetic implications
PubMed ID: 19056576
12‑week capsinoid trial showed a small but significant reduction in abdominal adiposity and a trend toward increased fat oxidation.
- Anti-Obesity Effects of Traditional and Commercial Kochujang in Overweight and Obese Adults: A Randomized Controlled Trial
PubMed ID: 35889740
Kochujang (includes red pepper) decreased visceral fat area and waist circumference over 6 weeks—direct clinical evidence for body‑fat reduction.
- Effect of capsaicin on substrate oxidation and weight maintenance after modest body-weight loss in human subjects
PubMed ID: 13129472
Oral capsaicin increased fat oxidation and reduced rises in RQ after modest weight loss, suggesting a meaningful metabolic contribution to weight-management though it did not significantly prevent 3‑month weight regain.
- Enhanced energy expenditure and fat oxidation in humans with high BMI scores by the ingestion of novel and non-pungent capsaicin analogues (capsinoids)
PubMed ID: 17284861
Capsinoids modestly raised REE and fat oxidation in overweight subjects, supporting a role in weight-management adjuncts.
Appetite suppression (4)
- Randomized Placebo-Controlled Trial of Topical Capsaicin for Delayed Chemotherapy-Induced Nausea and Vomiting
PubMed ID: 38905580
Topical low‑conc. capsaicin after chemotherapy significantly reduced delayed and extended-phase nausea and vomiting.
- Acute effect on satiety, resting energy expenditure, respiratory quotient, glucagon-like peptide-1, free fatty acids, and glycerol following consumption of a combination of bioactive food ingredients in overweight subjects
PubMed ID: 24015698
8‑week trial of a supplement containing capsaicinoids (plus other ingredients) produced a clear acute increase in self-reported satiety vs placebo.
- [Combination effects of capsicum plaster at the Korean hand acupuncture points k-d2 with prophylactic antiemetic on postoperative nausea and vomiting after gynecologic laparoscopy]
PubMed ID: 23703599
Capsicum plasters reduced postoperative nausea (short term), which can secondarily support restoring appetite after surgery.
- Effects of twelve weeks of capsaicinoid supplementation on body composition, appetite and self-reported caloric intake in overweight individuals
PubMed ID: 28235621
12-week capsaicinoid supplementation significantly lowered self-reported calorie intake (~−257 kcal/day at 4 mg/day).
Metabolism (4)
- Effect of dihydrocapsiate on resting metabolic rate in humans
PubMed ID: 20826626
Randomized trial of a capsinoid showed a reproducible small increase in resting metabolic rate (~+50 kcal/day) over one month.
- Effects of Capsinoid Intake on Brown Adipose Tissue Vascular Density and Resting Energy Expenditure in Healthy, Middle-Aged Adults: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Study
PubMed ID: 32887379
Capsinoid supplementation increased BAT vascular density and raised resting energy expenditure in the overweight subgroup—strongest metabolic signal among trials.
- Effect of capsaicin on substrate oxidation and weight maintenance after modest body-weight loss in human subjects
PubMed ID: 13129472
Oral capsaicin increased fat oxidation and produced a smaller rise in RQ during weight maintenance—direct metabolic effects supporting increased energy expenditure/fat oxidation.
- Enhanced energy expenditure and fat oxidation in humans with high BMI scores by the ingestion of novel and non-pungent capsaicin analogues (capsinoids)
PubMed ID: 17284861
Four-week capsinoid supplementation raised VO2/REE and fat oxidation in higher-BMI subjects (direct metabolic increase).
Nutrient uptake (3)
- Use of active substances of plant origin in chicken diets based on maize and locally grown cereals
PubMed ID: 16268107
Broiler chicken trial with a plant extract mix including capsaicin improved feed conversion ratio and shifted gut microbiota toward beneficial taxa—supports improved nutrient utilization in animals.
- A Comparative Study Between Two Sensory Stimulation Strategies After Two Weeks Treatment on Older Patients with Oropharyngeal Dysphagia
PubMed ID: 27503566
Capsaicin sensory stimulation improved swallow safety in oropharyngeal dysphagia — could improve oral intake and downstream nutrient delivery (indirect).
- Effects of Capsaicin on Older Patients with Oropharyngeal Dysphagia: A Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled, Crossover Study
PubMed ID: 28319947
Small capsaicin film acutely improved swallowing efficacy and increased salivary substance P — plausible improved bolus transit and intake.
Blood circulation (3)
- Immunohistochemical clues at aging of the skin microvascular unit
PubMed ID: 18564281
Topical capsaicin increased dermal microvascularity and vessel markers on histology, indicating local circulatory effects.
- Quantification of Dermal Microcirculatory Changes after Topical Administration of Capsaicin: A Randomized Placebo-Controlled Study in 46 Subjects
PubMed ID: 35836365
Topical capsaicin produced very large, consistent increases in local dermal blood flow and oxygenation in healthy subjects.
- Intensified insulin treatment is associated with improvement in skin microcirculation and ischaemic foot ulcer in patients with type 1 diabetes mellitus: a long-term follow-up study
PubMed ID: 24802206
Capsaicin‑induced skin vasodilatation (measured perfusion) was associated with better outcomes and glycemic control; capsaicin is a probe of microvascular function.
Fat burn (2)
- Effect of capsaicin on substrate oxidation and weight maintenance after modest body-weight loss in human subjects
PubMed ID: 13129472
Oral capsaicin increased fat oxidation (4.2 vs 3.5 g/h) and produced favorable RQ changes—directly supports enhanced fat burning.
- Enhanced energy expenditure and fat oxidation in humans with high BMI scores by the ingestion of novel and non-pungent capsaicin analogues (capsinoids)
PubMed ID: 17284861
Capsinoids increased fat oxidation measures in overweight subjects (direct evidence of increased fat burning).
Heart health (2)
- Capsaicin Supplementation Improved Risk Factors of Coronary Heart Disease in Individuals with Low HDL-C Levels
PubMed ID: 28930174
3‑month RCT in adults with low HDL: oral capsaicin modestly raised HDL, lowered TGs, and reduced CRP — cardiometabolic improvements.
- Capsaicin-containing chili improved postprandial hyperglycemia, hyperinsulinemia, and fasting lipid disorders in women with gestational diabetes mellitus and lowered the incidence of large-for-gestational-age newborns
PubMed ID: 25771490
In gestational diabetes, capsaicin lowered postprandial glucose/insulin and fasting TGs, beneficial cardiometabolic signals.
Blood sugar (1)
- Capsaicin-containing chili improved postprandial hyperglycemia, hyperinsulinemia, and fasting lipid disorders in women with gestational diabetes mellitus and lowered the incidence of large-for-gestational-age newborns
PubMed ID: 25771490
Randomized double‑blind 4‑week trial in gestational diabetes: capsaicin lowered 2‑hr postprandial glucose and insulin and improved fasting TGs.
Energy & Fatigue (1)
- Enhanced energy expenditure and fat oxidation in humans with high BMI scores by the ingestion of novel and non-pungent capsaicin analogues (capsinoids)
PubMed ID: 17284861
Capsinoids modestly increased VO2/REE and fat oxidation in overweight subjects (direct metabolic/energy effect).
Endurance (1)
- Effect of Meridian Acupressure on Aerobic Performance of Healthy Young Population: A Randomized Controlled Study
PubMed ID: 29461858
Capsaicin‑dressed plasters combined with acupressure increased inferred VO2max by ~8% in healthy men (small, confounded trial) suggesting improved aerobic capacity.
Body temperature (1)
- Effects of Capsinoid Intake on Brown Adipose Tissue Vascular Density and Resting Energy Expenditure in Healthy, Middle-Aged Adults: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Study
PubMed ID: 32887379
Capsinoids increased brown adipose tissue vascular density, implying thermogenic activation and potential increases in body heat production.
Similar by evidence
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Products with Capsaicin
Search all7 products whose verified label declares Capsaicin — not every bottle that mentions it in a title.