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Herbs & Supplements
African Pepper
Scientific Name: Capsicum
Other Names: Bird Pepper, Capsicum annuum, Capsicum frutescens, Chili Pepper, Goat's Pod, Mexican Chillies, Paprika, Red Pepper, Tabasco Pepper, Zanzibar Pepper
What side effects should I watch for?
Major Side Effects
The eyes and mucous tissues (such as inside the mouth and in the genital areas) are especially sensitive to capsicum. It can cause irritation, temporary blindness, and visual disturbances, if it gets into the eyes. The nose, mouth, and throat can also be irritated by exposure to capsicum.
Taken in a very high amount or for extensive periods of time, capsicum may also cause inflammation of the stomach or intestines. In rare cases, liver damage, kidney damage, or both has been reported from excessive oral use.
Eating large amounts of capsicum may damage taste buds and reduce the ability to taste foods and beverages.
Less Severe Side Effects
Chemicals in capsicum are irritating to the mouth, so many individuals cannot eat individuals cannot eat capsicum comfortably. Oral capsicum may also cause:
- Reddened face
- Runny nose
- Sweating
- Upset stomach
- Watery eyes
Individuals using topical capsicum may feel heat at the application site. Some users report stinging or burning pain--especially during the first few days of treatment. If irritation is intense, if a rash develops, or if pain lasts longer than a day or two, the capsicum preparation should be stopped.
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Note: The above information is not intended to replace the advice of your physician, pharmacist, or other healthcare professional. It is not meant to indicate that the use of the product is safe, appropriate, or effective for you.
In general, herbal products are not subject to review or approval by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). They are not required to be standardized, meaning that the amounts of active ingredients or contaminants they contain may vary between brands or between different batches of the same brand. Not all of the risks, side effects, or interactions associated with the use of herbal products are known because few reliable studies of their use in humans have been done.
This information is provided for your education only. Please share this information with your healthcare provider and be sure that you talk to your doctor and pharmacist about all the prescription and non-prescription medicines you take before you begin to use any herbal product.
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What side effects should I watch for? 
