How Cayenne Pepper Relieves a Sore Throat and Its Effectiveness

Evidence of cayenne pepper being used for medicinal and food purposes dates back over 9,000 years ago. Native Americans are one of the earliest civilizations known to utilize cayenne pepper and while many of the traditional uses of cayenne pepper have been disproven by modern science, some of its benefits are supported by past and current research. Because of the primary compound found in cayenne pepper, it may be an effective treatment for sore throats.

Active Constituents in Cayenne:

The main active constituent found in cayenne, and believed by researchers to provide its medicinal benefits, is a substance known as capsaicin. Throughout research, capsaicin has shown to contain pain-relieving properties by hindering the transmission of substance P, which is a neurotransmitter responsible for transmitted pain signals to your brain. Thus, by depleting the functionality of substance P, pain sensations are temporarily numbed. Other compounds found in cayenne known to provide medicinal benefits include flavonoids (antioxidants), carotenoids as well as vitamins C and A.

Cayenne and Sore Throat Treatment:

Although there are no specific scientific studies performed to determine the true value of cayenne for sore throats, initial research suggests that cayenne can help reduce the severity of sore throat pain through its ability to deplete substance P.

While cayenne pepper can help dilute the pain of a sore throat, it will not destroy the cause of this symptom such as bacteria or viruses. This being said, it can be an effective symptom treatment; however, you should take other medications or herbal remedies to help kill the cause of the sore throat for true relief.

Suggested Intake:

As with many natural remedies, there is no official dosage of cayenne pepper to treat sore throats; however, herbal practitioners typically suggest adding ½ teaspoon of cayenne pepper with one cup of boiling water then adding 1 teaspoon of agave nectar or honey for taste. Consume this solution to help relieve the intensity of a sore throat.

Safety Concerns:

While the internal use of cayenne pepper is generally considered safe for adults, do you use this remedy if you have throat or mouth sores or if you have a stomach ulcer as it will cause an intense burning sensation. Talk with your doctor about combining cayenne pepper with any medication you are currently taking.

References Used:

http://www.umm.edu/altmed/articles/cayenne--000230.htm

University of Maryland Medical Center: Cayenne

http://npic.orst.edu/factsheets/Capgen.pdf

National Pesticide Information Center: Capsaicin General Fact Sheet

http://www.health911.com/sore-throat

Health 911: Sore Throat