Cayenne is a spicy pepper commonly used to boost the flavor of certain foods. The substance that gives cayenne its kick -- capsaicin -- may also impart health benefits when used as a medicinal treatment. Historically, cayenne has been used to alleviate pain and digestive discomfort. Despite these medicinal benefits, cayenne pepper may cause negative effects during treatment.
Skin Irritation
When used as a food additive, cayenne pepper typically doesn't cause side effects. Handling cayenne pepper or cayenne supplements, such as an ointment or capsule, may cause skin irritation. Red, inflamed, tingly patches of skin may appear at the skin site exposed to capsaicin. Though such negative effects may be uncomfortable, they're typically temporary.
If you don't cleanse your skin after handling cayenne, you may also experience eye or nose irritation if you touch your face with contaminated hands. Simply washing your hands with water is not enough to remove capsaicin from your skin -- you must clean your hands with vinegar to fully remove this potential irritant. Consult your doctor if you experience persistent or severe skin irritation after handing a cayenne pepper or using an herbal treatment that contains capsaicin.
Stomach Upset
Orally administered cayenne supplements may cause stomach upset in certain people. You may experience mild burning in your mouth accompanied by stomach pain, heartburn or loss of appetite. Long-term treatment with cayenne supplements may increase your risk of developing an ulcer. If any of these negative stomach-related effects of cayenne pepper supplements increase in severity or do not subside, seek additional care from your primary medical provider.
Overdose
Consuming more than the recommended 30 to 120 mg of cayenne three times each day may put you at risk of an overdose. Ingesting large amounts of capsaicin may cause severe and potentially life-threatening negative effects, including liver and kidney damage, convulsions, or breathing difficulties. If you suspect that you've taken too much cayenne, seek immediate care from an emergency medical provider.
Allergic Reaction
People who are allergic to bananas, avocado, chestnuts, kiwi and latex may be at an increased risk of developing a severe allergic reaction following treatment with cayenne-containing supplements. Symptoms of an allergic reaction may include shortness of breath, wheezing, hives, pale skin, dizziness, weakness or loss of consciousness. In the absence of prompt medical intervention, an allergic reaction to cayenne may be deadly. Seek emergency medical care if you experience any of the negative effects of an allergy to cayenne after using or handling this supplement.
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