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
Should I take it?
Capsicum is the general name given to several species of hot peppers believed to have originated in Central and South America. Now cultivated in most temperate and tropical areas, capsicum generally grows as small bushes with hollow, seedy fruits. The plants cross pollinate easily, so many different hybrid species have adapted for different environments. The fruits, or peppers, have varying degrees of hotness depending on the type of capsicum and the growing conditions. Capsicum is common as a spicy flavoring for foods, and the peppers--often with the seeds removed--are eaten as a vegetable in many parts of the world. Among other nutrients, capsicum contains potassium and vitamin C.
Usually, the peppers are dried and ground into powder for medicine. The active ingredients include oily compounds called oleoresins, which temporarily irritate the eyes, so they are used in self-defense sprays. Interestingly, birds do not have the ability to taste capsicum. Therefore, it may be added to birdseed or feed for commercially-raised birds as a way to keep small mammals from eating the bird feed.
Dosage and Administration
In the United States, oral supplemental capsicum is available mostly as capsules. Oral dosing of capsicum varies considerably according to the condition being treated. In studies, daily doses of supplemental oral capsicum ranged from about 30 mg to 400 mg. Amounts of capsicum obtained from the diet may be much higher. Individuals who choose to take an oral capsicum product should follow the package directions for the condition being treated.
The U. S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved creams and ointments containing up to 0.075% of capsaicin as over-the-counter remedies for arthritis pain and muscle soreness. Generally, topical capsicum preparations must be used several times a day to be effective, and their full effectiveness may take up to 4 weeks to develop. The individual manufacturer's directions for doses and scheduling of doses should be followed carefully.
Summary
In the United States, capsicum is used mainly as a topical product to relieve pain and sometimes itching. By mouth, it may have some usefulness in relieving digestive conditions such as indigestion. Also taken orally to treat nasal congestion and headaches, it may have a role as add-on treatment for diabetes and obesity.
Risks
Individuals who are allergic to hot peppers, those with GI conditions, children, and women who are pregnant or breastfeeding should avoid taking supplemental amounts of capsicum by mouth.
Individuals with allergies to latex or tropical fruits may be sensitive to capsicum, as well. After handling capsicum plants or applying topical forms of capsicum, the hands should be washed carefully and the eyes and face should not be touched. If a rash or intense pain occurs, topical capsicum should be stopped.
Side Effects
In rare reports, very large amounts of capsicum or capsicum taken by mouth for very long amounts of time have been associated with liver or kidney damage. Orally, capsicum may irritate the stomach, worsening inflammatory or infective stomach conditions. The eyes, mouth, nose, and throat may also be irritated, producing results such as a runny nose and watering eyes. Topical forms of capsicum may cause burning or itching at the places they are applied. They should be applied only to unbroken skin.
Interactions
Oral capsicum can interfere with prescription and non-prescription drugs and other herbal products that:
- Cause sedation
- Delay or reduce blood clotting
- Inhibit monoamine oxidase
- Lower blood pressure
- Suppress stomach acid
Last Revised July 16, 2008
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Should I take it? 
