What is Chilli Capsaicin?

Chilli capsaicin is a compound that was first isolated in crystalline form from peppers in 1878. Before long, it was discovered that capsaicin caused a burning sensation in the mucous membranes. In addition, it increases the secretion of stomach acid and stimulates the nerve endings of the skin. In 1961, Japanese chemists isolated a substance similar to capsaicin from peppers and named it capsaicin. Dihydrocapsaicin (22%), nordihydrocapsaicin (7%) and homocapsaicin (1%) make up 30% of the total capsaicin mixture and are about half as pungent as capsaicin.

Capsaicin is currently used in topical form for postherpetic neuralgia. This medication is also used on the skin to relieve pain from conditions such as arthritis, psoriasis, or diabetic neuropathy. New research from the American Association for Cancer Research shows that capsaicin also kills prostate cancer cells by causing them to undergo apoptosis.

Benefits of Chilli Capsaicin:

1. May help with weight loss

The most popular benefit of capsaicin is its potential to support weight loss or fat loss. Your weight is largely determined by your metabolism, the process of breaking down what you eat and drink into energy for your body to use for everyday functions.

Chilli capsaicin supplements can boost your metabolism, making it easier for you to lose weight and burn fat. Capsaicin works by increasing oxygen consumption and body temperature, resulting in a slight increase in calories burned.

Research suggests that regular consumption of this compound may promote calorie deficit and aid in fat burning. Losing weight often requires a calorie deficit, which means you burn more calories than you burn. Capsaicin also appears to have an appetite suppressant effect, which can help you reduce your calorie intake throughout the day.

2. May Help Reduce Inflammation

Capsaicin supplements may have anti-inflammatory properties. Foods high in antioxidants, such as chili peppers, fight free radicals in the body. Free radicals promote chronic inflammation, which may increase your risk of diseases such as cancer, autoimmune disease, and heart disease. Therefore, capsaicin supplements may reduce your risk of these diseases.

3. Can relieve pain

Chilli capsaicin is sometimes used for pain management. It works by stimulating pain receptors, thereby reducing your sensitivity to pain. It is most commonly used in topical pain relief creams.

These products are used to treat joint diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis, as well as diabetic neuropathy, a type of nerve damage that causes pain in people with diabetes.

Precautions and side effects

1. May cause a burning sensation

While capsaicin supplements are generally considered safe, you should take some precautions. One of the most common side effects of capsaicin supplements is a burning effect throughout the digestive tract.

For people with acid reflux or heartburn, foods or supplements containing capsaicin may worsen your symptoms. Over time, your digestive tract becomes less sensitive to the effects of capsaicin, reducing the discomfort you may experience.

2. May cause temperature rise

Because this compound has an effect on the receptors in your body that regulate heat, consuming too much capsaicin may give you an uncomfortable feeling of warmth.

Also, chilli capsaicin supplements might increase your blood pressure. Therefore, if you are taking blood pressure medication, be sure to consult your healthcare provider before taking this supplement.