Some athletes say that cayenne helps temporarily ease rheumatic pains and arthritis.
Topical preparations (containing the active ingredient capsaicin) have been reported to be mildly to moderately effective in clinical settings. The United States Food and Drug Administration approved capsaicin for use as a topical pain reliever in 1995. The Commission E (an expert committee established by the German government to evaluate the safety and efficacy of herbs and herb combinations sold in Germany) has also approved topical capsaicin use in adults and children for painful muscle spasms of the shoulder arm and spine.
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The information presented by TraceGains is for informational purposes only. It is based on scientific studies (human, animal, or in vitro), clinical experience, or traditional usage as cited in each article. The results reported may not necessarily occur in all individuals. Self-treatment is not recommended for life-threatening conditions that require medical treatment under a doctor's care. For many of the conditions discussed, treatment with prescription or over the counter medication is also available. Consult your doctor, practitioner, and/or pharmacist for any health problem and before using any supplements or before making any changes in prescribed medications. Information expires December 2025.