Generality
Capsicin or Capsaicin is the active ingredient of chilli (plants of the genus Capsicum). Present in the fruits (berries) and seeds of these plants, capsicin is known and appreciated for its rubefacient action.
The violent and spicy flavor of chilli, capable of enhancing a large number of dishes, is linked precisely to the abundant presence of Capsaicin.
The same substance is contained in smaller quantities in sweet peppers, botanically close to chilli.
Infinitesimal dosages of Capsaicin are sufficient to cause a strong burning sensation. This stress causes a rapid release of adrenaline, giving an energy boost to the body.
This first hormonal discharge is followed by the release of endorphins, endogenous opioids with a powerful analgesic and exciting activity.
By virtue of its biological properties, Capsaicin is included in the formulations of numerous supplements and various cosmetics with direct activity on the microcirculation. There are even Capsaicin-based drugs used in the treatment of peripheral neuropathic pain; an example is given by the registered specialty Qutenza.
Capsicin or Capsaicin: Chemical Structure
Indications
Why is Capsaicin used? What is it for?
In spite of a "molecular activity not fully characterized, Capsaicin is now used in various clinical and preventive settings.
More precisely, according to recent evidence, Capsaicin could:
- Be effective as an anti-inflammatory agent, especially if used topically;
- Exercise a noteworthy "immunomodulatory action;
- Being valuable in the management of inflammatory diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis;
- Exercise an "analgesic action;
- Improve physical endurance skills;
- Assist in weight loss;
- Exercise a modest anti-cancer action.
Properties and Effectiveness
What benefit has Capsaicin shown during the studies?
Although most of the studies currently available refer to experimental models, the first clinical evidence, mostly obtained on the Asian population, seems to confirm the clinical usefulness of Capsaicin.
Capsaicin and tumors
According to some authors, Capsaicin could, at least in vitro, exert a valuable antitumor activity, acting on delicate molecular mechanisms.
More precisely, Capsaicin would appear on the one hand to facilitate the apoptotic process, or programmed death, of tumor cells and on the other to inhibit the expression of a factor known as VEGF, responsible for the vascularization of the tumor mass and the consequent metastasis.
Capsaicin and inflammatory diseases
The anti-inflammatory activity of Capsaicin, mediated by an inhibitory action against the expression of inflammatory cytokines, appears to be effective in various pathological conditions, such as rheumatoid arthritis, joint pathologies, trauma, psoriasis and atherosclerosis.
Capsaicin and pain
The analgesic use of Capsaicin has been known for years, so much so that in China it was customary to rub chili extracts on the scrotum of eunuchs before castration.
What our ancestors had found empirically was recently confirmed by the discovery of specific receptors for Capsicin.
These receptors play a fundamental role in thermal and pain sensation. Their bond with Capsaicin, after an initial, intense activation, tends to inactivate them, desensitizing them and determining the analgesic properties of the substance.
Capsaicin and obesity
The antiobesigenic action of Capsaicin, on the other hand, has also been observed in clinical trials.
This activity would be correlated both to the activation of proteins known as UCP, responsible for the dissipation of energy in the form of heat, and to the activation of the sympathetic nervous system.
Both properties would carry out an inducing activity towards the metabolism, increasing thermogenesis and the consequent basal metabolism.
Capsaicin and sport
The ameliorative activity of Capsaicin in relation to athletic performance would be attributable to the presence of some studies, mostly conducted on small rodents.
To better understand the real ergogenic potential of Capsaicin, however, it would be correct to wait for the statistically relevant clinical trial results.
Dosage and method of use
How to use Capsaicin
Although it is not possible to date to identify a standard and reproducible dosage of Capsaicin, in several studies it has been suggested the intake of 1-3 mg of Capsiatum, precursor of Capsaicin, preferably in the early morning.
Side effects
The use of Capsaicin has generally been shown to be safe and well tolerated.
There are currently no known frequent and clinically relevant adverse reactions related to the use of this active ingredient.
However, it would be useful to remember the potential irritating activity on the mucous membranes of Capsaicin taken at high doses.
Contraindications
When should Capsaicin not be used?
The use of Capsaicin is contraindicated in case of hypersensitivity to the active ingredient or to structurally related molecules.
Pharmacological interactions
What drugs or foods can modify the effect of Capsaicin?
No noteworthy drug interactions are currently known.
Precautions for use
What do you need to know before taking Capsaicin?
The use of Capsaicin should be avoided or at least supervised by a physician in case of chronic cough syndrome and hemorrhoids.
Given the low amount of work relating to the safety profile of Capsaicin taken during pregnancy and in the subsequent breastfeeding period, it would be preferable to avoid the intake of this active ingredient in the aforementioned phases.
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