Here’s an idea that I at first found surprising – and then fascinating.
Who would have thought that hot peppers – noted for their fiery taste and ability to add kick to anything graced with their presence – could act as painkillers by topical application? Most would assume that they just create a burning sensation.
Hot peppers contain a substance called capsaicin. It is the component responsible for the heat – and the hotter the pepper, the more capsaicin it has in it.
It turns out that capsaicin acts to deplete a substance in the body called Substance P (that’s its actual name!). What’s really remarkable is that Substance P is a neurotransmitter that transmits pain signals to the brain.
In short, what this means is that capsaicin may function as a painkiller through topical application!
Our good friends at Everyday Roots have posted three formulas for Homemade Hot Pepper Creams for Arthritis & Joint Pain. One of the three is “normal” strength, the second is “super”; and the third includes a few other ingredients that are noted for anti-inflammatory action.
A couple of safety tips:
1) of course – be VERY careful not to get this stuff in your eyes. In other words, no rubbing your eyes (or other delicate parts) unless and until you have washed your hands thoroughly of all traces of this cream. Don’t get it on broken skin, either. It is also advised to stop use if irritation occurs – and of course, seek medical attention for significant pain.
2) Don’t use in conjunction with a heat pack, as this could cause a burn.