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Capsaicin, a derivative of the hot pepper plant, is effective in
relieving minor pain associated with arthritis, muscle strain, bursitis,
backache, and other symptoms. Substance P, stored in the terminal endings
of the sensory nerve fibers, is believed to be temporarily released when
stimulated by the application of a capsaicin formula on the skin. Pain
diminishes with continued treatment and returns when the treatment is
discontinued. Hot Pepper Formula, a capsaicin formula in an emollient base, brings relief to the painful area, with virtually no side effects. A soothing warmth is felt almost immediately. Unique Identifier 87072334 Authors: Wallengren J. Moller H. Title: The effect of capsaicin on some experimental inflammations in human skins. Journal: Acta Dermato Venereological. (J. C:Omg) 66(5):375:80, 1986 **Title available in Calder Library Abstract Topical application of capsaicin is thought to deplete substance P from local sensory nerve terminals. In experiments of human skin inflammation was induced by injection of substance P(SP) or histamine intradermally, UV irradiation, non-immunologic contacturti-caria, tuberculin reaction, contact allergens and benzalkonium chloride with or without capsaicin pretreatment. The flare response to SP and histamine was suppressed by capsaicin pretreatment whereas the wheal was enlarged. Interestingly capsaicin pretreatment enhanced the responses to all other inflammatory agents. Unique Identifier 81193205 Authors: Bernstein JE. Swift RM. Soltani K. Lorinez Al. Title: Inhibition of axon reflex vasodilation by topically applied capsaicin. Journal: Journal of Investigative Dermatology. (J. C:ihz) 76(5):394-5, 1981 May **Title available in Calder Library-current issue on display. Abstract Topical application of capsaicin to human skin produced an initial burning erythematous reaction which diminished over 24 hours leaving the skin unresponsive to histamine-induced axon reflex vasodilation without altering sensitivity to pain, touch and temperature, Depletion of substance P from local sensory nerve terminals is suggested as a possible explanation for this capsaicin effect. |