Capsicum.Cayenne.Red Pepper.Capsicum Annuum and Capsicum Frutescens.

Contents

• Botanical Basic Data of Capsicum:Cayenne,Red Pepper.
• Description of Capsicum.
• Narrative History of Capsicum:Cayenne,Red Pepper.
• Properties and Constituents of Capsicum:Cayenne,Red Pepper.
• Images and Classification of peppers.
• Common Uses.Medicinal Action and Uses of Capsicum:Cayenne,Red Pepper.
• Capsicum:Mode of Action.
• Applications and Preclinical Studies of Capsicum.Cayenne.Red Pepper.
• Suggestions and Administration of Capsicium.
• Toxicology and Safety:Capsaicin and Capsicium Extract.
• Cayenne for Weight Control.
• Cayenne for Pain Control.
• How Search engine think about Capsium:red pepper.
• Research Update:Capsium.
• Photo Gallery of Capsicum.

Applications and Preclinical Studies of Capsicum.Cayenne.Red Pepper.:

Important Catalyst herb:Capsicum and Its extracts-Herbal Catalyst

 Capsicum is a catalyst herb. Its stimulating properties speed the absorption and effectiveness of any herbs taken in combination with it. Capsicum combined with garlic and parsley will help lower blood pressure!Capsicum increases the power of all other herbs. It is said to be unequaled for warding off diseases and equalizing blood circulation.This property very useful in many fashionable herb remedy and formulas.For Example.a ED treatment named "VP-RX Super Penis Enlargement Capsule"(MF by XiZangJiangMin Pharmaceutical Co,Ltd.) use this thing and got very strong effect.Commonly used in herbal combinations as a catalyst to increase delivery of other synergistic herbs, Capsicum and related peppers have a long history of use as digestive aids in many parts of the world.

 Because Capsicum boosts peripheral circulation and stimulates organ secretion, it expedites the therapeutic delivery and action of other herbs. In other words, the medicinal benefits of these herbs reach infected or inflamed tissue more rapidly due to enhanced blood flow.Consider the following statement: "Cayenne will insure the rapid and even distribution of the active principles of the rest of the herbs to critical function - al centers of the body, including those involved in cellular respiration, metabolism, data transmission, and neural-hormonal activation. Cayenne is included in several other blends for this reason. In extremely small quantities it can dramatically increase the efficiency of most other herbs."Many health practitioners believe that the key to healing is CAPSICUM stimulation. Capsicum stimulates eve rything from blood flow to peristaltic action in the stomach, to intestinal transit time. The re m a rkable ability of Capsicum to stimulate organ secretion and even heart action makes it one of the strongest natural stimulants known. Se veral different kinds of herbal blends targeting various body systems will utilize Capsicum to boost the formula's efficacy.


 Capsicum:the purest and most certain stimulant

 There can be little doubt that Cayenne furnishes one of the purest and strongest stimulants, which can be introduced into the stomach; while at the same time it has nothing of the narcotic effects of ardent spritis.It is no doubt the most powerful stimulant known; its power is entirely congenial t nature, being powerful only in raising and maintaining the heat on which life depends. It is extremely pungent, and when taken, sets the mouth as it were on fire; this last, however, but a few minutes, and I consider it essentially a benefit, for its effects on the glands causes the saliva to flow freely, and leaves the mouth clean and moist.

 Capsicum:the great booster of circulatory system

 This herb is a great food for the circulatory system in that it feeds the necessary elements into the cell structure of the arteries, veins and capillaries so that these regain the elasticity of youth again, and the blood pressure adjusts itself to normal. It rebuilds the tissue in the stomach and heals the stomach and intestinal ulcers; in equalizing the blood circulation, Cayenne produces natural warmth; and in stimulating the peristaltic motion of the intestines, it aids in assimilation and elimination.

 When the venous structure becomes loaded with sticky mucus, the blood has a harder time circulating; therefore, higher pressure forces the liquid through. Cayenne regulates the flow of blood from the head to the feet so that the pressure is equalized; it influences the heart immediately, then gradually extends its effects to the arteries, capillaries, and nerves (the frequency of the pulse is not increased, but is given more vigor).

 Capsicum:aid the viscera and interior actions

 Capsicum supports the natural beat (rhythm) of the viscera and interior actions of the glandular, circulatory, lymphatic, and digestive systems. It has been used with great success as a cure for spotted fever (?); the most active stimulant to support and re-animate feeble or exhausted powers.Cayenne is a counter-irritant; brings blood t the surface to take toxins away.Capsicum may be valuable in the prevention and treatment of blood clots.

 This is a medicine of great value in the practice, and may be safely used in all cases of disease, to raise and retain the internal vital heat of the system, cause a free perspiration, and keep the determining powers to the surface. The only preparation is to have it reduced to a fine powder. For a dose, take from half to a teaspoonful in hot water or tea sweetened with honey.

 Capsicum also heals ulcers:

 It's a stimulant herb and a digestive aid, helping improve digestion and soothing inflammation. It helps remove toxins from the body, relieves gastrointestinal problems including bleeding ulcers, colic, dyspepsia, flatulence and even diarrhea. It helps relieve the pain of shingles, cluster headaches, and itching palms and feet of diabetes.

 Capsicum has been proven beneficial for arthritis, cardiovascular disease, gastric ulcers, vascular headaches, impotence (resulting from venous insufficiency) infections, kidney problems, menstrual complains, respiratory conditions such as asthma and pleurisy, and thyroid dysfunction.


 Capsicum rich in vitamins and minerals:

 Capsicum is high in vitamins and minerals that are needed for healing. It can also be applied directly to a wound. I'm not going to tell you that it doesn't hurt, because it hurts like hell, but it will stop the bleeding. Cayenne Pepper has a rich supply of vitamin C and alpha-tocopherol (vitamin E). Capsicum also contains carotenes. Carotenes are antioxidants known for their effects in helping prevent cancer and cardiovascular disorders and for helping to protect the body form carcinogenic and toxic chemicals. It also contains vitamin A, beta-carotene and vitamin C, as well as B1, B2, B3, B5, B6, B9 (folic acid), cobalt and zinc.

 Capsicum great for energy:

 Capsicum is great for energy. A little Capsicum sprinkled in water and gargled will eliminate a sore throat.It has also been found to be beneficial for chronic fatigue and mild depression.

 Capsicum stimulates the appetite:

 Capsicum stimulates the appetite, more especially as a hot climate tends to produce anorexia. We have always held the saliva is the key that unlocks the door to digestion. Capsicumma sialogogue, will stimulate the flow of saliva and will be very helpful to people who have become accustomed to inhaling their food and thus robbing themselves of the benefits of saliva in the digestive process.Capsicum would stimulate their flow of saliva as they return to a healthier attitude toward eating.

 Capsicum Speed circulation,slow bleeding:

  Capsicum has been used traditionally to speed circulation, slow bleeding, and as a general tonic. This herb helps to regulate the heart and blood pressure, and also to get circulation to the extremities.

 Studies have shown that it can raise metabolic rates by as much as 25 percent, aid in treating herpes, shingles and Raynauds disease, and help prevent heart disease and ulcers. Cayenne is also used as a natural pain killer with anti-inflammatory properties. Cayenne may be used internally or externally to treat arthritis, bunions, psoriasis, and muscle and joint pain. For external use just open a capsule and add some to a cream or lotion that you are already using if you want to use it for massage. Taken internally, cayenne is used to treat ulcers, improve circulation, and aid digestion. It is used as a tonic for the heart, kidneys, lungs, pancreas, spleen and stomach and to treat herpes, shingles and rheumatism.

 A stimulating stomachic. A catalyst for all herbs. Improves circulation, aids digestion by stimulating gastric juices, stimulates the appetite, reduces inflammation, is a mild stimulant or tonic, improves metabolism, relieves gas, colds, chills, and stops bleeding from ulcers. Good for the kidneys, lungs, spleen, pancreas, heart, and stomach.


 Cayenne as Cardiovascular stimulant:

 As a cardiovascular stimulant, Capsicum assists in lowering blood pressure and breaking down cholesterol buildup. The warming properties of Capsicum are useful for people suffering from poor circulation to the hands and feet and other related conditions.

 Capsicum is said to be unequaled for its ability to boost circulation and increase heart action. Interestingly,cultures who consume significant amounts of cayenne pepper in their diet have much lower rates of cardiovascular disease.Capsicum exerts a variety of desirable actions on the entire card i ovascular system. It has the extraordinary ability to enhance cardiovascular performance while actually lowering blood pressure.A quote taken from a card i ovascular publication reads,"Capsaicin has also been shown to prolong cardiac action potential in atrial muscle..."Michael T. Murray, N.D.,has stated,"Cayenne pepper [Capsicum] should be recommended as a food for its beneficial antioxidant and cardiovascular effects."Herbalists have considered Capsicum as a superior food for the heart. In fact, in cases where a heart attack is suspected administering capsicum in hot water has been thought to help lessen the severity of the attack.Capsicum can also be placed on or under the tongue in emergencies involving heart attack,stroke or hemorrhaging.Note: Using Capsicum for any heart-related problem,especially a suspected heart attack should never take the place of medical attention or a physician's care.

 Cayenne as Great Stimulant:

 Cayenne is a medicinal and nutritional herb. It is the purest and most certain stimulant...The herb is a great food for the circulatory system in that it feeds the necessary elements into the cell structure of the arteries, veins, and capillaries so that these regain the elasticity of youth again, and the blood pressure adjusts itself to normal. It rebuilds the tissue in the stomach and heals stomach and intestinal ulcers,in equalizing the blood circulation, cayenne produces natural warmth, and in stimulating the peristaltic motion of the intestines it aids in assimilation and elimination....When the venous structure becomes loaded with sticky mucus, the blood has a harder time circulating, therefore, higher pressure forces the liquid through.

 Capsaicin and Atypical Facial Pain:

 Recently Capsaicin has been used to treat atypical facial pain, especially when a specific pain "trigger point" (a place, if touched, causes or exacerbates facial pain) is involved. Capsaicin is applied directly to this "trigger point" several times a day. If the trigger point is inside the mouth, a plastic dental splint is used to apply the capsaicin cream. If the trigger point is on the face, it is topically applied. In some cases, pain reduction only occurs after several weeks of application. There is anecdotal evidence that a course of capsaicin treatment can result in long-term pain remission for some patients with atypical facial pain.

 Tips on Using Capsaicin:

 Capsaicin usually burns when first applied. It sometimes takes more than a day or two for the effect to kick in, which is when the burning sensation stops. So spending a little more time building up a tolerance to the burning sensation might be one way to make the discomfort a bit more bearable.... It takes something with true detergent action to get this stuff off your skin-a mild baby shampoo or dish liquid is your best bet-and a wipe-down with rubbing alcohol won't hurt either. But if you can tolerate it on your skin for at least 15 minutes (so say the package inserts) you will get the benefit even if you have to wash it off later.


 Cardiovascular and Circulatory Functions:Effects on Cholesterol and Lipid Metabolism

 For cholesterol, Capsicum significantly lowers serum cholesterol and serum triglycerides.By reducing blood vessel dilation, capsicum is able to help people overcome their addiction to alcohol.

 Capsaicin affects lipid metabolism as demonstrated in a study by Kawada et al. (1986). Male rats fed a diet containing 30% lard with capsaicin at 0.14% of the diet developed serum triglyceride levels that were significantly lower than those of animals receiving a high-fat diet without capsaicin. But levels of free fatty acids, cholesterol, and pre-beta-lipoprotein were not affected. Activities of liver enzymes involved in lipid synthesis (acetyl-CoA carboxylase) and in carbohydrate metabolism (glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase) were inhibited in the high-fat diet, but the activity of the latter was restored to control levels by the added dietary capsaicin. The weight of perirenal adipose tissue was reduced in a dose-dependent manner by capsaicin. These results suggested that capsaicin did not interfere with lipid biosynthesis. Rather, that capsaicin might stimulate lipid metabolism, and possibly facilitates mobilization of lipid from adipose tissue.

 In a follow-up to the study above, Kawada et al. (1986a) measured the effect of i.p. administered capsaicin on general energy metabolism, including oxygen consumption, respiratory quotient, and substrate utilization. Capsaicin had a general stimulatory effect on metabolism, similar to that of epinephrine; oxygen consumption was elevated, respiratory quotient was initially elevated, then decreased; and serum glucose and insulin levels were elevated, concomitant with a rapid decrease in liver glycogen, and a gradual increase in serum triglycerides. The response was blocked by beta-adrenergic blockers, but was not effected by alpha-adrenergic or ganglion blockers. Their results suggested that capsaicin effects metabolism either as a direct beta-adrenergic agonist, or indirectly by stimulating catecholamine release.

 Blood Cholesterol Reducer:Various studies have conclusively demonstrated that Capsicum reduces the risk of developing atherosclerosis (hardening of the a rteries) by reducing blood cholesterol and triglyceride levels.Additional clinical studies conducted in India found that when cayenne was ingested along with dietary cholesterol, the typical rise in liver and blood serum cholesterol levels was significantly inhibited. In addition, bile acids and free cholesterol were subsequently eliminated from the body through the stool.Interestingly, these tests revealed that using Capsicum was actually more effective in reducing cholesterol that capsaicin alone.Daniel Mowrey, Ph.D., emphatically points out that this is just one of many examples of the superiority of whole botanicals as opposed to their isolated components.Note: Using Capsicum in combination with Hawthorn is a particularly good cardiovascular tonic.

 Cardiovascular and Circulatory Functions:Peripheral vascular functions

 Yamato et al. (1996) showed that capsaicin produced a marked concentration-dependent decrease in the amplitude, the rate of rise, and the rate of relaxation of the contractile tension of rat ventricular papillary muscles; however, the half-life of the relaxation and the time to peak tension were only slightly effected. Calcium release and shortening of action potential duration in ventricular myocytes was profoundly reduced by capsaicin, perhaps resulting from the non-specific membrane-stabilizing effects of capsaicin.

 Capsaicin treatment caused a biphasic effect on contractile force, left ventricular systolic blood pressure, and heart rate of isolated perfused rat hearts. A transient initial increase in contractile force and left ventricular systolic pressure was observed, followed by a prolonged depression of both parameters. Heart rate was increased, but this effect was not followed by a subsequent reduction. The initial increases in contractile force and blood pressure could have been induced by the release of calcitonin-gene-related peptide (CGRP) from local sensory nerves; the negative inotropic effects following the initial increase may be due to a direct inhibitory effect of capsaicin on ventricular cells, or to nonspecific membrane-stabilizing effects. The increased heart rate was attributed to the release of CGRP (Kaygisiz et al., 1990).

 Capsaicin elicits a vasoconstrictive response in the large cerebral arteries of the cat (Saito et al., 1988), and in the middle and basilar cerebral arteries, an effect was attributed to a direct contraction of smooth muscle, since the response was independent of the presence of endothelium and nerve components. However, Saito et al. found results suggesting that while capsaicin releases and depletes vasodilator peptides from perivascular nerves, the direct vasoconstrictor effects of capsaicin overwhelm the vasodilator effects of these peptides.
 


 Capsicum stimulate the gal bladder reflex:

 Oral administration of Capsicum may stimulate the gal bladder reflex.Capsicum either contains a cholagogue, or acts as a powerful stimulus upon the mucous membrane of the duodenum.

 Capsicum Antibacterial Effects:

 In "The Antibacterial Effects of Spices","nine of the spices were found to be active. Garlic, particularly, and onions were active against all organisms (streptococci, Escherichia coli, Bacillus prodigiosis, B. proteus, B. subtilis, Shigella paradysenteriae Flexner, Ebertherla typhsa, Salmonella enteriditis, and Vibrio cholerae). The seven other spices (clove mustard, radish, horseradish, marjoram sage, paprika) were weaker and to attack some of the microorganisms. The action of garlic was by far the strongest. The most active spices come from members of the Liliaceae, then follow the Cruciferae, Myrtaceae and finally Libiatae. In mustard seeds, radish and horseradish, the antibacterial action was proportional to their content of mustard oils. Spices containing essential amounts of tannic substances or alkaloids were also effective. Garlic and onions were more effective when crushed then when segmented. Garlic was also active at a distance through the air but not onions, while both showed a diffusive inhibiting activity in agar. Bacteria could not be made resistant to spices. From this it seems apparent that a combination of garlic and cayenne would be very effective bestowing an immunity to unwanted bacteria upon the human system.

 Capsicum Anti-inflammation Effects:

 Capsicum plasters are valuable in pneumonia, pleurisy and other forms of acute congestion. Combine with lobelia and bran or hops. One hour is the maximum time to keep them applied.It is the only natural stimulant worth while considering in diarrhea and dysentery with bloody mucus, stools and offensive breath. Capsicum is indicated in all low fevers and prostrating disease. It increases the power of all other agents, and helps the digestion when taken with meals, and arouses all the secreting organs.

 Digestive, Hepatic, and Gastrointestinal Functions:Gastric Functions

 Red Pepper, a too much forgotten therapeutic agent against anorexia, liver congestion, and vascular troubles. Capsicum is highly effective in causing hemorrhoids to regress; and these fruits have the same action on varicose veins. The results are attributed to alkaloids or glucosides in the peppers.

 Excessive amounts of Capsicum (above 20 grams, thus, nearly an ounce) may induce frequent bowel movements.

 Capsicum stimulates the appetite, more especially as a hot climate tends to produce anorexia. We have always held the saliva is the key that unlocks the door to digestion. Capsicum, a sialogogue, will stimulate the flow of saliva and will be very helpful to people who have become accustomed to inhaling their food and thus robbing themselves of the benefits of saliva in the digestive process. Capsicum would stimulate their flow of saliva as they return to a healthier attitude toward eating.

 In tests using cultured human intestinal epithelial cells, Jensen-Jarolim et al. (1998) found sufficient in vitro evidence to suggest that Capsicum may increase the permeability of the gastrointestinal tract to allow transport of macromolecules and ions across the epithelium; an effect, they add, that might have importance to food intolerance and allergic reactions to food. The transepithelial electrical resistance (TER) of confluent human intestinal epithelial cells was significantly reduced (p less than 0.001) by paprika powder (C. annuum), chili pepper (p less than 0.001), or cayenne pepper (C. frutescens; (p less than 0.005). A sustained decrease in TER by paprika correlated with an increase in permeability for 40 kDa-sized macromolecules, which are sufficient for important plant-derived allergenic proteins to pass (i.e. MW 14 and 17 kDa). The authors note, however, that while chili pepper, cayenne pepper and paprika may loosen cell contacts to increase permeability of the intestinal epithelium, other spices (bay leaf, black pepper, and nutmeg) were found to decrease permeability (Jensen-Jarolim et al., 1998). This is interesting because in diets where these spices are used most commonly they are typically combined in dishes, a practice that could conceivably counteract an increase in gastrointestinal epithelial cell permeability.

 The stimulatory effect of orally administered capsaicin on gastric acid secretion and mucosal blood flow was studied in rats using amounts roughly equivalent to a normal Thai diet. Capsaicin was noted to have a protective effect on gastric mucosa of ethanol-induced gastric lesions in rats (Uchida et al., 1991). The protective effect was attenuated upon pretreatment with indomethacin and disappeared in capsaicin-sensitive nerve-degenerated rats, suggesting that enhanced prostaglandin formation inhibited lesion formation. Further study by the same group found decreased stomach motility and increased mucosal blood flow with intragastric capsaicin treatment, whereas capsaicin pre-treatment desensitized the afferent neurons, thereby mitigating this protective effect.

 Anuras et al. (1977) demonstrated effects of capsaicin on electrical slow waves in the isolated cat colon that paralleled the reported effects of other laxative agents. It has long been observed that oral ingestion of Capsicum can result in a laxative effect in humans, especially if the individual is unaccustomed to the dose taken.


 Immune Functions; Inflammation and Disease:

 Cancer.Carcinogenicity/Mutagenicity:

 A full review of capsaicin's carcinogenic and anticarcinogenic potential (Suhr and Lee, 1996) provided theoretical evidence for both effects from capsaicin. Ernst and Barnes (1998) refer to this study with the comment that "Taken orally orally in regular high doses it may act as a carcinogen and could promote gastric cancer, but in low doses it seems to have anticarcinogenic activity." Duke (1985) points out that the low incidence of gastric cancers in Latin America suggests that hot pepper, with its many constituents, may be anticarcinogenic.

 Duke (1985) notes that in India, where dietary intake of Capsicum is common, submucous fibrosis of the palate and fauces (opening of the mouth and oral pharynx) has been reported. A 10% Capsicum, protein-deficient diet fed to rats led to a 54% increase in the incidence in hepatomas, suggesting that capsaicin may contribute to the development of liver cancer. Nalini et al. (1998) report that rats fed a diet containing red chili (8 mg/day/100 g body weight) alone or with a carcinogenic substance (DMH, 1,2-dimethyl hydrazine, 20 mg/kg, s.c.) in addition to the red chili showed a tumor incidence of 83.3% and 93.3%, respectively. Histopathological examination of the colons of the DMH plus red chili group showed a significant increase in beta-glucoronidase activity. This was not found in the red chili alone group. beta-glucoronidase is an enzyme that enhances the breakdown of glucuronides which conjugate toxins, drugs, and hormones in the liver, thereby rendering them soluble and detoxified. The authors point out that while over 90% of these conjugated toxins are excreted via the colon, if the colonic microflora becomes stimulated by procarcinogens (e.g., DMH, red chili) the glucuronides could be broken down and liberate toxins and drugs. Mucinase in the colon and fecal contents of the DMH plus red chili group was also significantly higher than in the controls, but not in the red chili alone group. Mucinase is found in the intestinal flora where it breaks down protective mucins (glycoproteins) which serve as lubricants and possibly serve as a barrier to the damaging effects of toxins, bacteria and viruses.

 Chili prepared by sun-drying, salting and deep-frying in groundnut oil contains a high amount of carcinogenic 3,4-benzo(a)pyrene. Long-term feeding studies in male mice with chili so-prepared (100 mg/day) added to a laboratory rodent diet found that whereas none of the controls developed tumors, the chili group showed a 35% incidence of adenocarcinoma in the abdomen over 2 yrs. The authors comment that their results suggest the high incidence of gastric cancer among the male population of Madras may owe to the contributing factor of salted, sundried and oil-fried red chili (Balachandran and Sivaramkrishnan, 1995).

 Park et al. (1998) found tumor-promoting activity from capsaicin lacking in a 2-stage skin carcinogenesis model in mice. Instead, capsaicin, when administered at the same time as a tumor promoter (12-O-tetradecanoylphorbol-13-acetate), was found to inhibit mouse skin carcinogenesis.

 Infectious diseases. Chemopreventive activity:

 An in vitro chemopreventive activity of capsaicin was shown by Morre et al. (1995). When capsaicin was aded to cultured cells of Caov-3 human ovarian carcinoma, MCF-10A human mammary adenocarcinoma,HL-60 human promyelocytic leukemia, and HeLa cells,a preferential growth-inhibition was evident as cells became smaller and underwent cell death.Condensed and appearing fragmented,the nuclear DNA of these cells suggested that capsaicin had induced apoptosis.

 Immune modulation:

 The arachidonic acid cascade is an important component of inflammation and the associated localized immune response. The release of arachidonic acid (AA) from membrane phospholipids and subsequent leukotriene biosynthesis occurs during inflammation, and products formed by AA oxidation act in concert with numerous other factors, including cytokines, PAF (platelet-activating factor), nitrogen oxide, and histamine, all of which are important mediators of the immune response. A recent study (Panossian et al., 1996) found that at low concentrations capsaicin stimulated the production of interleukin-1a, while at higher doses it inhibited this response. Capsaicin caused a dose-dependent release of AA from PMNs (poly-morphonuclear leukocytes), and a similar concentration-dependent conversion of the AA metabolites, prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) and LTB4. When incubated with granulocytes, capsaicin caused an increased synthesis of 12-HETE, an eicosanoid metabolite of AA, but at the same time was found to cause a dose-dependent decrease of all products of 5-lipoxygenase. These results suggested that the dose-dependent reversible effects of capsaicin on immune cells and interleukin-1alpha are closely associated with arachidonic acid metabolism (Panossian et al., 1996).

 The immunomodulatory effects of capsaicin are varied and may be related to interactions with the neuropeptides somatostatin and SP, a peptide made up of 11 amino acids and found throughout the body in nerve cells and certain endocrine cells in the gut. Payan and co-workers (1984) hypothesized that exposure to noxious stimuli or injury of sufficient magnitude stimulates the release of SP and somatostatin from peripheral terminals of primary afferent neurons. SP triggers vasodilatation, increases permeability of regional microcirculation, and activates mast cells which release histamine, leukotactic peptides, and leukotrienes. Histamine and leukotrienes LTC4 and LTD4 increase vascular permeability, and peptide leukotactic factors stimulate the influx of polymorphonuclear leukocytes (PMNs) and monocytes that have adhered to venular walls; SP magnifies the functional responses elicited by the leukotriene LTB4. In addition, increased vascular permeability promotes the local delivery of both the protein and cellular components of adaptive immunity, so that SP could augment the activity of T lymphocytes that accumulate at the site of reaction (Payan et al., 1984). However, in the opposite of what might have been expected, capsaicin pretreatment was shown to block the localized immune and inflammatory response. This effect was observed in studies described above, in which capsaicin prevented the SP-mediated increase in vascular permeability and inflammation in lung tissue exposed to noxious stimuli (Biggs and Ladenius, 1990; Krishna and Gosh, 1989; Lundberg and Saria, 1983). Other studies focusing on the role of SP and other neuropeptides in mediating the antigenic response have, in general, supported this hypothesis; for example, SP stimulates synthesis of lymphocytes and stimulates production of immunoglobulins (Stanisz et al., 1986; Helme et al., 1987). For example, pretreatment of neonatal rats with capsaicin reduced by more than 80% the number of lymphocytes secreting antigenic antibodies in response to a subcutaneous antigenic stimulus of sheep red blood cells. This could be reversed by a subcutaneous infusion of SP at the injection site immediately following antigen stimulation (Helme et al., 1987).


 Microbial infections:

 In herbal medicine, Capsicum species are used as antimicrobials. Including capsaicin and dihydrocapsaicin, Chichewicz and Thorpe (1996) used a filter-disk assay to assess the antimicrobial activity of several varieties of 5 species (C. annuum, C. baccatum, C. chinense, C. frutescens, and C. pubescens) against a range of pathogenic bacteria and one yeast, Candida albicans. The pure capsaicinoids showed no antimicrobial activity. In general, the extracts displayed varying degrees of inhibition against Bacillus cereus, B. subtilis, Clostridium sporogenes, C. tetani, and Streptococcus pyogenes. In some cases, heating the extracts 100 Deg C for 20 min. resulted in a complete or partial loss of activity. Most significantly, uncooked extracts of all species and varieties produced complete or partial inhibition of the growth of Clostridium sporogenes and C. tetani, indicating that the use of Capsicum species in Mayan medicine may have been related to the prevention or treatment of Clostridium-related diseases. Growth of Bacillus species in general was stimulated by the extracts, except for the leaves of the jalapeo and red chile varieties of C. annuum, which partially inhibited the growth of B. cereus and B. subtilis.

 Metabolic and Nutritional Functions:Carbohydrate metabolism; Antidiabetic Activity

 Monsereenusorn (1980) measured a hypoglycemic effect of crude Capsicum on blood glucose levels in the rat. Oral administration at 1,200 mg/kg resulted in an 18% reduction in fasting blood glucose levels, while i.p. administration resulted in a similar reduction (16.9%) at 700 mg/kg. In glucose tolerance tests, pretreatment with Capsicum (500 mg/kg, p.o.) flattened the oral glucose tolerance curve compared to controls. A small but significant reduction in blood glucose levels was observed when the glucose load was administered intracardially, suggesting that capsaicin induced changes in systemic glucose metabolism. In earlier studies

 Monsereenusorn, 1979; Monsereenusorn and Glinsukon, 1979), using everted sacs of rat and hamster jejunum, capsaicin caused a significant inhibition of glucose transport across the intestinal wall at pH 7.4, but only a slight inhibition at pH 5.0. Capsaicin at pH 7.4 increased the conversion of glucose to lactic acid, indicating a stimulatory effect on glucose metabolism; however, at the lower pH value of 5.0, glucose metabolism was suppressed with a concomitant increase in glucose transport across the intestinal wall. The authors speculated that at the lower pH oxidative glucose metabolism was disturbed, with the mucosal cells compensating by enhancing anaerobic glucose metabolism with a consequent increase in lactic acid formation (Monsereenusorn, 1979; Monsereenusorn and Glinsukon, 1979).

 A partial mechanism for the inhibition of glucose transport across the intestinal wall was suggested in experiments by Monsereenusorn and Glinsukon (1979). In everted sac preparations, capsaicin (14 mg/100 mL) produced a 22.6% inhibition of the intestinal Na+-K+-ATPase sodium pump in hamsters, although not in the rat. In the small intestine of hamsters and rats, there are high levels of these pumps. In addition to their potential involvement in active transport of cations across cell membranes, these pumps have been implicated in the sodium-dependent active transport of amino acids and sugar (Monsereenusorn and Glinsukon, 1979).

 Neurological, Psychological, and Behavioral Functions:Receptor and Neurotransmitter Mediated Functions:

 Capsaicin selectively activates certain populations of unmyelinated primary afferent sensory neurons (Type 'C'), and many of its cardiovascular effects and effects on respiratory reflex functions can be attributed to its excitation of a distinct population of these neurons in the vagus nerve (pneumogastric or 10th cranial nerve). Intact sensory supply is required for many of the actions of capsaicin; for example, deafferentiation of the skin areas and guinea pig ileum abolishes many capsaicin-induced responses, such as the inflammatory response and smooth muscle contraction. Some of the unmyelinated sensory fibers sensitive to capsaicin contain the neuropeptides substance P (SP) and somatostatin. SP is a highly potent vasoactive substance which appears to be a neurotransmitter. It mediates sensory pain, temperature, and touch. Capsaicin can stimulate the release of these neuropeptides. Prolonged exposure to capsaicin results in a gradual desensitization to capsaicin's acute effects; this effect may be due to the depletion of SP and somatostatin from the primary afferent neurons or other mechanisms (Nagy, 1982).


 Capsicum Blood Detoxification:

 "Cayenne is a kind of catalyst in the blood purification process...it acts as a diaphoretic, stimulating the excretion of wastes in the swe at." Because Capsicum stimulates organ secretion and boosts peripheral blood flow,it would only stand to reason that it would also facilitate the faster removal of toxins from the bloodstream and lymphatic system.You may have already noticed that Capsicum is frequently added to blood-purifying herbal combinations.Circulatory Booster Researchers have found that the simulating action of Capsicum on surface capillaries can help to pre vent cold hands and feet.For this reason,it may be helpful for Reynaud's Syndrome.Old remedies using Capsicum have even recommended placing it in socks to warm the feet and to help prevent frostbite.An old folk cure for a chilled body was a steaming hot cup of Capsicum tea.Free Radical Scavenger The rich flavonoid content of Capsicum gives it significant antioxidant capabilities.A recent study conducted in 1995 showed that Capsicum has a higher ascorbic acid content than chiles from the jalapeno or serrano varieties.Vitamin C and bioflavonoids can scavenge for dangerous free radicals which cause tissue damage and can predispose organs to degenerative diseases.Free radicals are found everywhere and are created as by-products of metabolic p rocesses including the act of breathing itself.Pollutants can expose the body to free radicals.An interesting study done in Mexico City and published in 1993 found that Capsicum extract was able to modulate the mutagenic activity of urban air samples.In other words,these potentially dangerous nitro-a romatic compounds found in polluted air were kept from mutating by red chile extract.Chemical breakdowns of Capsicum have also found that CAPSICUM the pepper is high in Provitamin A,which significantly contributes to its healing ability and immune fortification.Anti-Carcinogenic Compound Anti-cancer research recently tested Capsicum on laboratory rats and found that it does indeed demonstrate anti-cancer properties by inhibiting certain enzymes which can initiate the mutation of cells.What this implies is that taking Capsicum can afford the body some protection against the cellular mutation which occurs in malignant growths.Capsicum actually inhibited the formation of dangerous metabolites under laboratory conditions where they should have normally been activated.This study implies that Capsicum may have many more sophisticated biochemical actions than previously thought.

 Capsicum:An Impressive Pain Killer.

 Capsaicin has recently emerged as a remarkably effective pain reliever and has become the subject of recent clinical research . Applying capsaicin in cream or ointment form to painful joints, scar tissue or other painful conditions involving peripheral nerves confuses pain transmitters. In other worlds,capsaicin temporarily disrupts sensory nerve cell biochemistry there by impeding the relay of pain sensations from the skin surface. It does this by inhibiting a neurotransmitter called substance P. This specific compound is thought to be the main mediator of pain impulses from peripheral nerve endings.Substance P has also demonstrated its ability to inhibit inflammatory pain generated in arthritic joints in much the same way.Today,several over-the-counter topical preparations utilize capsaicin for the pain of arthritic joints. The ability of Capsicum to control severe and unresponsive pain is significant, to say the least. Modern clinical utilization of topical capsaicin may offer signifi-cant relief for a number of painful conditions including: diabetic neuropathy, cluster headaches, post-amputation pain, post-mastectomy pain, shingles and painful scar tissue.

 Post-Surgical Pain:

 In the early spring of 1996, prime time national news show s reported that scientists had found that individuals who had suffered from chronic pain in post-surgical scars (heart bypass, arterial grafts, etc.) were successfully treated with topical preparations containing capsaicin. While this may have been news to many of us, clinical studies had been already published for several years that capsaicin held profound value for various kinds of pain which did not respond to established medical treatments. Typically surgical scars and regions around them can produce persistent pain or can be very sensitive to the touch even when completely healed. This type of pain phenomenon seems to respond well to capsaicin ointments and creams.

 Post-Mastectomy Pain:

 When capsaicin preparations were applied following mastectomy or breast reconstruction, pain was significantly relieved. Se veral double blind studies found that using capsaicin creams four times daily for 4 to 6 weeks resulted in much less frequent occurrence of sharp, jabbing pain.All thirteen patients studied had a 50 percent or greater improvement . Various unpleasant sensations other than pain also improved with topical applications of capsaicin creams.


 Mouth Sores from Radiation or Chemotherapy:

 A fascinating study conducted at the Yale Pain Management Center discove red that capsaicin could ve ry significantly lessen pain caused by mouth sores which frequently develop after chemotherapy or radiation.Apparently delivering the capsaicin in the form of soft candy (taffy) enabled the substance to be retained in the mouth long enough to desensitize the nerve endings causing the pain. Each one of the eleven case studies reported that their pain had decreased and in two patients, it stopped entirely.

 Arthritis Pain:

 Clinical tests have confirmed that topical capsaicin ointments substantially alleviate the miserable pain that characterizes osteoand rheumatoid arthritis.These studies revealed that using 0.075 capsaicin cream reduced tenderness and pain.Dr. Michael T. Murray writes:"...seventy patients with osteoarthritis and thirty - one with rheumatoid arthritis received capsaicin or placebo for 4 weeks. The patients were instructed to apply 0.025 percent capsaicin cream or its placebo to painful knees four times daily. Significantly more relief of pain was reported by the capsaicin-treated patients than by the placebo patients throughout the study..."Anyone suffering from osteo or rheumatoid arthritis should evaluate the effectiveness of capsaicin ointments for joint pain. Ester Lipstein-Kresch, M.D., has studied the effectiveness of capsaicin creams for arthritis and has stated: "You need to apply it three or four times a day on the affected area for at least two weeks before you'll see any improvement. An initial burning sensation at the site is not unusual for the first few days, but this goes away with continued application." Note: Capsaicin is also useful for tennis elbow due to its ability to block the transmission of pain.

 Capsicum:Diabetic Neuropathy.

 Diabetic neuropathy is a painful nerve condition which can develop in cases of prolonged diabetes. Several double-blind studies have supported the considerable value of capsaicin creams for relieving the pain associated with this disorder.The results of a controlled study using Capsicum for seve re cases of diabetic neuropathy which did not respond to conventional therapy were published in 1992. A cream containing Capsicum was applied to painful areas four time a day and pain was carefully e valuated for 8 weeks at two-week intervals. The results we re impressive, to say the least. In the 22 patients who used the Capsicum the following results we re re c o rded: "Capsaicin tre a tment was more beneficial than vehicle treatment in the overall clinical improvement of pain status, as measured by physician's global evaluation and by a categorical pain severity scale...In a follow-up study, approximately 50 percent of the subjects reported improved pain control or were cured..."Note: While there was a burning sensation when the Capsicum c ream was first applied, some subjects found that its magnitude and duration lessened with continued application.


 Capsicum:Migraine Headaches(Cluster Type).

 Topical applications of capsaicin ointments intranasally may also help to relieve the pain of a specific kind of migraine headache called cluster headaches. Cluster headaches are characterized by s e ve re pain which typically radiates around one eye. The term "cluster" refers to the fact that these headaches tend to occur in clusters of one to three per day and can recur at intervals. Headache pain and severity we re reducing in groups using intranasal capsaicin. This type of capsaicin treatment should be done under a physician's care. There is some speculation that capsaicin may be more effective in pre venting migraines before they develop into a full blown attack.

 Pharmacokinetics:

 Oral dosing of rats with capsaicin and dihydrocapsaicin results in an 85% absorption in the jejunum after 3 hours (Rumsfield and West, 1991).

 The distribution and metabolism of capsaicin and/or dihydrocapsaicin has been studied in rats. Capsaicin is distributed to the brain, spinal cord, liver and blood within 20 mins. of i.v. administration. Oral doses of dihydrocapsaicin in the rat showed metabolic activity associated with its absorption into the portal vein. Capsaicin and dihydrocapsaicin are metabolized in the liver by the mixed-function oxidation system (cytochrome P-450-dependent system). It is assumed that capsaicin is excreted in urine. In rats, most of dihydrocapsaicin is known to be rapidly metabolized and excreted in the urine (Rumsfield and West, 1991).

 With respect to topical applications of capsaicin, it has been estimated that assuming 100% of a topically-applied dose is absorbed into the body, an application of 90 g capsaicin (2 tubes of cream, 0.025% capsaicin) per week would result in a daily exposure of 0.064 mg/kg capsaicin for a 50 kg person. This represents less than 10% of the dietary intake of a typical Indian or Thai diet (Rumsfield and West, 1991).
 

 Anti-Bacterial.:

 C. annuum extract inhibited Salmonella typhimurium and Pseudomonas aeruginosa growth, IC50 1.5mL/100g of meat and 0.3mL/100g of meat respectively. At 3mL/100g of meat, the extract showed a bactericidal effect on Pseudomonas aeruginosa (Careaga M et al, 2003). Lowering of cecal Bacteroidaceae, a predominant bacterial group (from 9.4 to 9.0 log CFU/g), Bifidobacteria (from 8.7 to 7.6 log CFU/g) and Staphylococci was observed in mice fed with a diet containing 2% red pepper (Takashi et al, 2004).

 Anti-Neoplastic.:

 Capsaicin topically applied onto dorsal skin of female ICR mice strongly attenuated activation of NFkB and AP-1 induced by the typical tumour promoter,12-O-tetra-decanoyl-phorbol-13-acetate (Han et al, 2002). Capsanthin, capsanthin 3'-ester, capsanthin diester, capsorubin, capsorubin diester, capsanthin 3,6-epoxide, cucurbitaxanthin A-3'ester and beta-carotene isolated from the fruits of C. annuum demonstrated potent in vitro anti-tumour-promoting activity with inhibitory effects on Epstein-Barr virus early antigen (EBV-EA) activation induced by the tumour promoter 12-O-tetra-decanoyl-phorbol-13-acetate (TPA). Capsanthin diester and capsorbin diester showed strong inhibitory effects. Capsanthin, capsanthin 3'-ester and capsanthin 3,3'-diester and major carotenoids in C. annuum demonstrated potent anti-tumour-promoting activity in an in vivo mouse skin two-stage carcinogenesis assay using 7, 12-dimethylbenz[a]anthracene as an initiator and TPA as a promoter (Takashi et al, 2001).


 Antioxidant.:

 6",7"-dihydro-5',5'"-dicapsaicin showed antioxidant activity comparable to that of capsaicin and was about 25 times more potent than alpha-tocopherol when compared on the ADP/Fe2+ induced liposomal lipid peroxidation (IC50 of 10 uM for 6' ',7''-dihydro-5',5' "-dicapsaicin compared to IC50 of 250 uM for alpha-tocopherol) (Ochi et al, 2003). Capsorubin and related compounds capsanthin, capsanthin 3,6-epoxide and cycloviolaxanthin isolated from C. annuum inhibited the oxidation of methyl linoleate in solution initiated by 2,2'-azobis(2,4-di-Me vareronitrile) (AMVN) with the antioxidative activities decreasing in the order of capsorubin, capsanthin 3,6-epoxide, capsanthin, cycloviolaxanthin to beta-carotene (Takashi et al, 2001).

 Anti-Protozoal.:

 Oil of C. annuum killed 90--96% of the cercaria of Schistosoma mansoni 15 min (Frischkorn et al, 1978).

 Hypocholesterolaemic:

 Rabbits fed with 1% red pepper powder for 12 weeks showed reduced blood plasma cholesteryl ester transfer protein activity than controls. The plasma total cholesterol, triglyceride, LDL-C, VLDL-C, and VLDL-TG levels and the atherogenic index were all decreased in the red pepper group, whereas the HDL-C level was higher in the red pepper group. Red pepper supplementation increased fecal triglyceride excretion. The red pepper-fed group also had fewer fat droplet deposits in the aorta than the control group (Kwon et al, 2003).

 Hypolipidaemic.:

 Mice fed a diet containing 2% red pepper for 28 days had lower levels of triacylglycerides compared to control mice (58 mg/100 mL versus 73.8 mg/100mL). Epididymal fat tissue was also reduced from 1.26 g in control rats to 0.7161 g in red pepper fed mice (Takashi et al, 2004).

 Neuronal Stimulatory.:

 Twenty-six of 28 cat nociceptive neurons were activated by an intra-arterial administration of capsaicin and dihydrocapsaicin. Fourteen of 16 non-nociceptive neurons were not activated by these substances. The mean latency and duration of capsaicin were 1.2 and 6.1 s and those of dihydrocapsaicin were 1.3 and 5.0 s, respectively. The increase of firing frequency produced by capsaicin and dihydrocapsaicin was inhibited by morphine and this inhibition was antagonised by naloxone (Andoh et al,. 1980).

 Anti-Mutagenic.:

 C. annuum was effective in reducing the mutational events induced by the promutagen agent ethyl carbamate (EC) and alkylating agent methyl methane sulphonate (MMS) in Drosophila melanogaster larvae (Hamss et al, 2003).


 Memory deficit amelioration:

 Dietary ingestion of C. annuum ameliorated the age related alteration of senenescence accelerated mouse, SAMP8. SAMP8 mice that received a diet containing 0.1% (w/w) capsanthin showed a much better memory acquisition in passive avoidance tasks compared to those given the control diet (Suganma et al, 2004).

Reference:

• 1.Capsicum.Cayenne.Red Pepper.Capsicum Annuum and Capsicum Frutescens.

This article written and edited via herbalist of MDidea Extracts Professional. They run a range of online descriptions about this herb,including general information related and summarized updating discoveries from findings of professional scientisits this field related.Describe style aimed to form a useful detecting literature space where the intertwined threshold and related questions raise out and visualize themselves.

♣ last edit date:11th,Oct.2010.