Rheumatoid arthritis, or RA, is a debilitating disease caused by a malfunction of the immune system. With RA, the immune system mistakenly attacks joint tissue, resulting in swollen, stiff and painful joints. There is no cure for RA, so patients sometimes turn to natural treatments for symptom relief. Surprisingly, phytochemicals in hot sauce may be helpful for treating arthritis symptoms. As always, ask your doctor before trying any new treatment for arthritis.
About RA
Aching joints are common with arthritis, but rheumatoid arthritis attacks more than just joint tissue. RA causes symptoms throughout the body, including fever, fatigue and muscle weakness. According to the American College of Rheumatology, more than 1 million Americans are affected by RA and 75 percent of those affected are women, often between 20 to 60 years of age. RA can also cause chronic dry eyes, low blood counts and firm lumps around the affected joints. There is no cure for RA, so physicians treat the disease with immune-suppressant drugs, anti-inflammatory medications and biological drugs that slow down damage caused by the disease.
About Hot Sauce
Hot sauce is a term used to describe condiments made from different kinds of hot chili peppers to produce a spicy flavor. Hot sauce was once used in folk medicine as a joint-rubbing liniment for arthritis pain much like pepper creams are used today. The chili peppers that give hot sauce its spicy flavor contain a powerful phytochemical called capsaicin, which works as a topical analgesic when applied to the skin.
Research
A study published in the April 2008 issue of "The Journal of Pharmacy and Pharmacology" studied the effects of hot pepper juice on inflammation. Results showed a decrease in inflammation due to the presence of the hot peppers' phytochemicals, which may inhibit the production of inflammatory enzymes. A previous study published in the March 2004 issue of the "British Medical Journal" compared the effectiveness of topical hot pepper ointments to placebo cream for the relief of musculoskeletal pain. Results showed a 50 percent reduction in pain for hot pepper users, with results lasting up to 4 weeks.
Considerations
Although hot sauce has been around for centuries, some people may have a reaction to the ingredients in hot sauce. If you choose to use hot sauce as a joint liniment for RA, perform a skin test with a small amount to see how you react. Common topical reactions include a slight burning sensation, tingling and redness at the site of application. People with asthma or breathing difficulties may react to hot sauce, with shortness of breath and wheezing. Seek emergency attention for allergic reactions, which may also include swollen face, lips or airways.
References
- American College of Rheumatology; Rheumatoid Arthritis; Eric Ruderman M.D., et al.; June 2008
- University of Maryland Medical Center; Cayenne; Steven D. Ehrlich N.M.D.; November 2008
- Naturalhome-remedies.com; Real Home Remedies for Arthritis
- "The Journal of Pharmacy and Pharmacology"; Anti-inflammatory Effects of Red Pepper; F. Spiller, et al.; April 2008
- "British Medical Journal"; Systematic Review of Topical Capsaicin for the Treatment of Chronic Pain; Lorna Mason, et al.; March 2004
