Gabe Mirkin, M.D.
Pain messages are passed along nerves by a
neurotransmitter called substance P. Capsaicin, the substance
that makes peppers hot, blocks substance P and the resultant
pain. A cream containing .025 percent capsaicin has been shown
to block pain in joints, nerves and skin. It can be used to relieve
the pain from a variety of causes: arthritis, surgery, various
injuries, tumors, nerve damage from diabetes and so forth.
Reports suggest that capsaicin cream also can control the
discomfort of cluster headaches, psoriasis or itching from any
cause.
Pepper creams are available over-the-counter in most
drug stores. When you use pepper cream, you need to know
that capsaicin is a very stable alkaloid that does not wash off
your skin, even with soap. If you apply it with your fingertips and
later touch your eyes, lips, or any mucous membrane or open
cuts, you can get a nasty burning sensation that will last about
twenty minutes. You can avoid this problem by wearing rubber
gloves to apply it, or buy the pepper cream in a special roll-on
applicator bottle so you don’t get it on your hands.
Checked 7/9/07