Synopsis

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

Cayenne pepper (Capsicum annuum), containing the active compound capsaicin, has a long history of traditional use for various types of pain, including headache and tension-type headaches. In traditional medicine systems, such as herbal folk remedies, cayenne pepper is sometimes applied topically (in creams or ointments) or very rarely consumed to help relieve headache pain. The basis for this is capsaicin's ability to deplete substance P, a neuropeptide involved in transmitting pain signals to the brain. This traditional use is more commonly noted with topical preparations for cluster headaches or neuropathic pain rather than specifically for tension-type headaches.

Scientific evidence supporting the use of cayenne pepper or capsaicin for tension-type headaches is limited. Most clinical research focuses on capsaicin nasal sprays for cluster headaches, not tension headaches. One or two small studies have suggested a possible effect on headache reduction when capsaicin is applied intranasally, but these were not specific to tension-type headaches and the evidence is not robust. There is little direct clinical evidence for oral or dietary cayenne pepper in managing tension headaches.

In summary, while there is a traditional basis for using cayenne pepper for headaches in general, and a plausible mechanism via substance P depletion, the specific evidence for tension headache relief is weak and based primarily on historical rather than modern clinical research.

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