Pepper Best for Pain

Calendar May 19, 2016
Pepper Best for Pain

A recent well respected cochrane review of fourteen randomized controlled studies ,with 2050 participants, evaluating herbal medicine treatments for low back pain found that Capsicum frutescens (Cayenne) reduced pain more than placebo.

“Although this is not the most effective treatment, it is safe and can be effective for localized pain,” Dr. Chad McNeil said. “It’s nice because it can be used throughout the day as often as needed.”

Although no herbal medicine was a knockout punch, multiple studies did show that the active ingredient in Cayenne pepper did help with pain.  The most common method of treatment was topical with cream or ointment.

“You just have to be careful when applying these creams and either use gloves or wash your hands well prior to touching your eyes, lips, or using the restroom.  The creams will burn on sensitive areas!” Dr. McNeil said.

To find out more about different treatment options for your back pain see the interventional pain management specialists at Azalea Orthopedics.

The use of herbs is a time-honored approach to strengthening the body and treating disease. But herbs can trigger side effects and interact with other herbs, supplements, or medications. Please consult with your doctor before trying out this technique.

Resources:
Herbal Medicine for Low Back Pain: A Cochrane Review; Gagnier et al, Spine. 2016;41(2):116-133
http://umm.edu/health/medical/altmed/herb/cayenne

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