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

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Synopsis

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

Capsicum, commonly known as cayenne pepper or chili pepper, has a long history of traditional use for supporting sinus health, particularly in herbal medicine and folk remedies. The main active component in capsicum is capsaicin, which is known for its pungent heat. Traditionally, capsicum has been used to help clear nasal congestion and promote sinus drainage. This effect is thought to occur because capsaicin stimulates mucus secretion and temporarily opens nasal passages. Some over-the-counter nasal sprays for non-allergic rhinitis actually contain capsaicin and are used in parts of Europe.

However, scientific evidence supporting the effectiveness of capsicum for general "sinus support" is limited. A few small studies have found that capsaicin nasal sprays can reduce symptoms in people with non-allergic, non-infectious rhinitis, but there is little research on its use for sinus infections or chronic sinusitis. Most clinical research focuses on capsaicin’s role in pain relief or metabolic health rather than sinus health. Therefore, while there is a traditional basis and some emerging scientific interest, the overall evidence for capsicum as a sinus support agent remains limited and would be characterized as modest at best.

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