Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2

Cayenne pepper (Capsicum annuum) has a long history of traditional use as a decongestant in the context of colds and respiratory ailments. Folk medicine practices, particularly in North America and Asia, have used cayenne, often in teas or topical balms, to help relieve nasal congestion and clear sinuses. The main active component in cayenne pepper, capsaicin, is known to irritate mucous membranes, which can lead to a temporary increase in nasal secretions and a subjective sensation of clearer airways.

From a scientific standpoint, the evidence is limited but not entirely absent. Capsaicin’s action on the transient receptor potential vanilloid 1 (TRPV1) receptor may stimulate mucus flow, and some small studies have explored capsaicin nasal sprays for non-allergic rhinitis, showing modest benefit in reducing nasal congestion. However, these uses are not directly linked to treating the common cold, and rigorous clinical trials specifically investigating cayenne's effect on cold-related congestion are lacking. Most medical sources do not officially recommend cayenne as a decongestant for colds, and systematic reviews generally do not support its routine use for this purpose.

In summary, while there is a strong tradition of using cayenne for cold-related congestion, scientific validation remains limited and anecdotal. The evidence supporting its effectiveness is weak and primarily based on historical use and plausible mechanisms, rather than robust clinical data.

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