Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 4

Capsicum, specifically in the form of capsaicin (the active compound in chili peppers), has scientific support for its use in managing pain associated with Shingles (herpes zoster). After an acute episode of shingles, many patients develop postherpetic neuralgia (PHN), a chronic and often severe nerve pain. Topical capsaicin creams or patches are used to alleviate this pain. Capsaicin works by depleting substance P, a neuropeptide involved in transmitting pain signals, from sensory nerve endings. This results in reduced pain sensation over time.

Several clinical studies and reviews, including Cochrane reviews, have demonstrated the efficacy of high-concentration capsaicin (8% patch) in relieving PHN pain. Patients often experience a burning or stinging sensation upon application, but with repeated use, this typically subsides, and pain relief becomes more significant. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved high-concentration capsaicin patches for the treatment of PHN.

However, capsaicin is generally not used during the acute phase of shingles (when the rash is present), but rather for persistent neuropathic pain afterward. While oral or dietary capsicum is not effective for this condition, the topical application of purified capsaicin is well-established in clinical guidelines for postherpetic neuralgia, reflecting robust scientific validation for this specific use.

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