Evidence supporting the use of: Cayenne
For the health condition: Chest Pain

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Synopsis

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

Cayenne pepper (Capsicum annuum), containing the active component capsaicin, has been traditionally used in various cultures as a remedy for chest pain, including angina and other heart-related conditions. Historical records, especially in herbal medicine practices such as those documented by herbalists like Dr. John Christopher in the mid-20th century, reference cayenne as a circulatory stimulant believed to improve heart health and alleviate chest discomfort. The traditional rationale centers on cayenne’s reputed ability to stimulate blood flow, warm the body, and act as a “reviver” in acute situations.

However, scientific evidence supporting cayenne’s efficacy in treating chest pain is minimal and largely anecdotal. There are a few preliminary studies and case reports suggesting that capsaicin may have cardiovascular effects, such as vasodilation and mild blood pressure reduction, but these do not specifically address chest pain or angina in controlled clinical scenarios. Major medical guidelines do not recognize cayenne or capsaicin as a validated treatment for chest pain, and there are safety concerns regarding its use, particularly in people with existing heart conditions. Therefore, while its use is rooted in tradition, scientific validation is lacking, and the evidence supporting its use for chest pain remains very weak.

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Products containing Cayenne

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