Evidence supporting the use of: Capsaisin
For the health condition: Cough (spastic)

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 3

Capsaicin, the active component in chili peppers, has some scientific validation for its use in treating chronic cough, particularly spastic or refractory cough that does not respond to standard therapies. The mechanism of action involves desensitization of the transient receptor potential vanilloid 1 (TRPV1) receptors on sensory nerve endings in the airways. These receptors are implicated in the cough reflex, and their overstimulation can contribute to chronic cough. Inhaled capsaicin is commonly used in research settings to provoke cough and assess cough reflex sensitivity. However, paradoxically, repeated exposure to capsaicin can reduce cough reflex sensitivity over time—a phenomenon known as tachyphylaxis or desensitization. Clinical studies have shown that capsaicin-based treatments (such as oral lozenges or sprays) can provide relief in cases of refractory or spastic cough, especially when conventional antitussives are ineffective. One double-blind, placebo-controlled study demonstrated that capsaicin lozenges significantly reduced cough frequency and severity in patients with chronic idiopathic cough. However, most studies are small and more high-quality, large-scale randomized controlled trials are needed. In summary, there is moderate scientific evidence supporting the use of capsaicin for spastic cough, especially in chronic, refractory cases. Its use is not rooted in traditional medicine for this purpose, but rather in modern pharmacological research into the cough reflex and sensory nerve modulation.

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