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Chili peppers are famous for a lot of things, including their hotness. This spicy sensation is caused by the capsaicin.
Although it is known to cause a three-alarm fire in the mouth, capsaicin extract can also provide pain relief when applied to the skin. This is because capsaicin has analgesic properties that help relieve pain.
When used topically, capsaicin may help controlling pain in peripheral nerves as well as other types of muscle and joint pain.
Capsaicin is available over the counter (OTC) and in prescription form. Here are seven of the best capsaicin products and answers to your hottest questions about this natural wonder.
Capsaicin cream, gels, ointments, and patches are primarily used to relieve pain in conditions such as arthritis, muscle pain or strain, joint pain, and diabetic neuropathy. A
Prescription capsaicin patches work like other topicals but contain a higher concentration of capsaicin. According to a
Oral capsaicin supplements are sometimes used as part of a weight loss routine. A
Ready to try a capsaicin product but don’t know where to start? Here are seven of the best capsaicin products that you can buy online, in stores, or with a prescription.
Best Capsaicin Cream
Zostrix Maximum Strength Natural Pain Relief
When the pain hits, you want to act fast. Topical capsaicin creams like Zostrix Maximum Strength Pain Relief Cream are a popular pain relief product. This super potent cream contains 0.1 percent topical pain reliever capsaicin, which is one of the strongest OTC formulas available. It can provide temporary relief for minor aches and pains like lower back pain, arthritis, and sprains. Zostrix is ​​non-greasy and odorless, so you don’t have to worry about strong smells. Plus, it doesn’t require a prescription, so you can buy it online or in stores.
Best prescription product
Qutenza
Most OTC products contain between 0.025 and 0.1 percent capsaicin. This amount may help temporarily relieve minor pain, but if you need something stronger, your doctor may recommend a prescription patch called Qutenza. Designed to treat neuropathic pain associated with postherpetic neuralgia and neuropathic pain associated with diabetic peripheral neuropathy of the feet, the Qutenza Topical System contains 8 percent capsaicin – a significantly higher amount than over the counter products. Capsaicin is given by a patch that your doctor applies to a specified area. The patch stays on the skin for 30 to 60 minutes, depending on what is being treated. Treatment with Qutenza can be repeated every three months.
Best for the budget
Rugby Cream Capsaicin, 0.025%
Rugby Capsaicin Cream is a budget option that offers the same benefits as its expensive competitors. At around $ 4.00 a bottle, this over-the-counter product contains 0.025% capsaicin, making it a good starter topical for those curious about whether capsaicin is right for you. Rugby is recommended for the temporary relief of minor pain in muscles and joints. This formula has no added fragrance and only requires a small amount to do the job. Rugby Capsaicin Cream does not require a prescription. It is available online and in stores.
Best Capsaicin Blend
Nervex
Nervex Nerve Pain Cream is an over-the-counter topical product that contains:
- capsaicin
- arnica
- B12, B1, B5 and B6
- D3
- methylsulfonylmethane (MSM)
- witch Hazel
The company promotes the cream for anyone with neuropathy and fibromyalgia pain, muscle spasms, and other minor everyday aches and pains. Nervex is odorless. and suitable to apply to your hands, feet, or other areas recommended by your doctor or other healthcare professional. One downside is that the label does not state the percentage of capsaicin. However, Nervex does not require a prescription and you can buy it in stores or online.
Best capsaicin gel
Capzasin Quick Relief Gel
Capzasin Quick Relief Gel is one of the most popular capsaicin gels on the market. Affordable and effective, Capzasin contains 0.025% capsaicin and 10% menthol, which provides a feeling of freshness when applied to the skin. This combination can provide temporary relief for minor aches and pains. A notable feature of this product is the sponge applicator which allows you to apply and massage the gel into the skin without getting it on your hands. Capzasin gel does not require a prescription. It is available online and in stores.
Best oral supplement
NOW Cayenne 500 mg hard capsules, 100 units
If you’re looking to support digestive health, metabolism, and overall joint and muscle health, oral capsaicin products like NOW Cayenne are a great place to start. Unlike topical capsaicin, which helps provide temporary and often rapid pain relief, capsules take longer to work, but they offer potential benefits, such as digestive and metabolic support, that topical capsaicin lacks. NOW Cayenne contains 500 mg of cayenne pepper as annual capsicum. It’s soy-free, vegan, and GMO-free. The recommended dosage is one capsule two to four times a day. NOW Cayenne does not require a prescription and you can buy it in store or online.
Best OTC patch
Salonpas Capsicum Patch
Whether you’re on the go, in a hurry, or just want to keep your hands clean, a peel and apply option for pain relief can work quickly and with little effort on your part. Salonpas-Hot Capsicum Patch is an OTC patch measuring 5.12 x 7.09 inches. It contains 0.025 percent capsaicin and provides temporary pain relief for muscle aches, strains, bruises, and minor arthritis. Once applied, the patch lasts about eight hours. For maximum pain relief, you can apply a new patch three to four times a day. You can purchase the Salonpas patch in store or online. It does not require a prescription.
Although generally considered safe when used in the right dose, capsaicin does have side effects. Topical capsaicin can cause the following problems:
- burning sensation in the applied area
- irritation, redness or itching
- breathing problems like sneezing, coughing, and throat irritation
In more severe cases, topical capsaicin can cause eye irritation or pain. It can also cause pain, blisters, and swelling where it is applied.
Oral capsicum in pill or capsule form is also generally considered safe when taken as directed. Some side effects that can occur include upset stomach or irritation, sweating, or runny nose. Safety concerns arise if you take more than recommended or for long periods of time.
When to consult a doctor
If you experience serious side effects, or if you continue to have side effects after a few days, it is time to call your doctor. Also, if you have an allergic reaction to topical or oral capsaicin, stop using it and see an emergency room immediately. Signs of an allergic reaction include difficulty breathing, swelling of the throat, hives, chest tightness, rash, and itching.
Signs of an allergic reaction include difficulty breathing, swelling of the throat, hives, chest tightness, rash, and itching.
Talk to your doctor before using any capsicum product if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or have a chronic condition. You may also want to see a doctor if over-the-counter capsaicin products aren’t working and you need a higher concentration. They can discuss a prescription patch that contains a higher amount of capsaicin.
Is Capsaicin Good For You?
Capsaicin is a common ingredient in many pain relievers. It is also the zing which makes hot peppers and sauces spicy. In addition to the pain relieving benefits, capsaicin may also increase the amount of heat produced by your body,
What is the strongest capsaicin cream?
The strongest over-the-counter capsaicin creams contain 0.1 percent capsaicin. Some of the more common more potent brands include Zostrix and several generic drugstore brands like Walgreens Capsaicin Cream.
Where can I buy capsaicin cream?
You can buy capsaicin cream online, at a drugstore, grocery store, or health food store, or ask your doctor for a prescription capsaicin cream or patch. When shopping, look for arthritis pain relievers. Capsaicin is a common ingredient in over-the-counter arthritis creams.
What foods contain capsaicin?
Capsaicin is powerful, but it is not abundant in many foods. The most common way to include capsaicin in your diet is in chili peppers, including habanero peppers, hot sauces, cayenne peppers, dried hot peppers, paprika, and some spicy ketchups, according to one. 2014 study.
If you are not a fan of capsaicin or would like to try a product that offers similar benefits, there are several alternatives to consider. Although this is not an exhaustive list, the following ingredients are commonly found in topical products such as ointments, creams and gels used for aches and pains.
Capsaicin is an extract from chili peppers. It can treat minor pain-related issues and sometimes help with digestive health or weight loss.
You can find capsaicin in a variety of formulas, including creams, gels, capsules, or a patch. If you are using capsaicin for pain relief, the best place to start is topically. However, if you are looking for digestive or metabolic support, consider an oral supplement.
It is important to follow the directions on the label and not to use more than what is recommended. If you experience unusual discomfort or pain from capsaicin, stop using it. If this persists, call your doctor immediately.
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