Evidence supporting the use of: Capsicum
For the body system: Bronchials

Links: Go back one page, Tool main page, Ingredients list, Health conditions list, Body systems list

Table of Contents

Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 1

Capsicum (commonly known as cayenne pepper or chili pepper) has traditionally been used in herbal medicine for a variety of health concerns, including support for the bronchial or respiratory system. In folk medicine, capsicum preparations have been used to stimulate circulation, act as a decongestant, and provide relief from coughs and other respiratory issues. The rationale is that the pungent component, capsaicin, may help thin mucus and promote its expulsion, thus clearing airways.

However, scientific validation for these effects is limited. While capsaicin is known to have some effects on sensory nerves and can induce coughing, robust clinical evidence supporting its efficacy for bronchial support or as a treatment for respiratory conditions (such as asthma or bronchitis) is lacking. Most scientific studies focus on capsaicin's effects on pain perception, metabolism, and topical use rather than direct benefits for the bronchial system. Some over-the-counter topical preparations use capsaicin for its analgesic properties, but oral or inhaled use for respiratory conditions is not supported by high-quality clinical trials.

In summary, the use of capsicum for bronchial support is primarily justified by historical and traditional use rather than modern scientific evidence. Safety concerns may also arise, as inhaling capsaicin can cause irritation or even bronchospasm in sensitive individuals. Therefore, its use for this purpose should be approached with caution.

More about capsicum
More about Bronchials