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Capsicum for Pain Relief

Capsicum, or capsaicin, is an extract from red chili peppers that makes them spicy. Capsicum is used in many over-the-counter pain relief creams that you can apply directly to painful areas. While capsicum creams will not bring instant pain relief, regular application over one to six weeks can help ease inflammation and block pain signals from traveling to the brain.

  1. How to Use Capsicum Cream

    • Use a small amount of capsicum cream and massage it into the affected area gently three to four times a day. Wash your hands thoroughly after applying the cream to prevent eye irritation if you touch your face. If you are using the cream on your hands, do not wash your hands for at least 30 minutes to get the full benefit of the cream. Use capsicum cream every day, or as directed by your doctor. It may take several weeks before you begin seeing results. See your doctor if you do not see any improvement after a month or if your pain worsens. Continue using the cream even after your pain has subsided. According to Johns Hopkins Medicine, most patients experience a recurrence in pain shortly after stopping capsicum cream use.

    Precautions

    • Do not use capsicum cream on open sores or rashes unless directed to do so by your doctor. Avoid getting the cream into your eyes, ears or other sensitive areas. If the cream gets into your eyes, flush them with cool water and seek medical attention if your vision is blurry or if the burning does not subside. Do not wrap bandages, towels or other cloth around areas where you have recently applied capsicum cream. You should not use products containing capsicum if you have had an allergic reaction to chili peppers in the past. Do not apply heat to the treated area, as this can increase burning and stinging.

    Side Effects

    • According to Johns Hopkins Medicine, the most common side effect of capsicum cream is burning, stinging or redness of the application site. These side effects occur in 40 to 70 percent of people, but they usually go away after several days of use. If you experience severe irritation that does not go away, discontinue use and talk to your doctor. Do not use capsicum cream more than three or four times a day unless directed to do so by your doctor. Overuse can increase the chance of side effects. If you experience burning, avoid taking a hot shower immediately before or after applying the cream.

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