Heart failure occurs when the heart no longer can pump enough blood to different parts of the body. Infection of the heart muscles, congenital heart disease, arrhythmia, heart attack, thyroid disorders and anemia can increase the risk of heart failure. Symptoms include shortness of breath, swelling of the extremities and abdomen, irregular pulse, fatigue, insomnia and loss of appetite. A healthy diet, exercise, medications and surgery can help treat the condition. Certain natural foods and supplements such as capsaicin can also help prevent or manage heart failure.
What is Capsaicin?
Capsaicin is an active organic compound that is responsible for the pungency of the fruit of Cayenne pepper or capsicum fruit. It is absorbed through the skin and mucous membranes and has been used to treat a variety of conditions, including circulatory disorders, diabetes, osteoarthritis, headaches, arthritis and stomach gas.
Dosage
Capsaicin is available as capsules, tablets and ointments. However, clinical trials are lacking with regard to the appropriate dose and form of capsaicin for heart disease. In fact, the Mayo Clinic states that the ideal dose of the herbal supplement varies in each individual and your doctor can help establish the optimum dose for you.
Effect of Capsaicin on Heart
Capsaicin also helps lower the blood pressure by releasing specific proteins called calcitonin gene-related peptide, which dilate the blood vessels, according to the Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center. Science Daily reported in September 2009 that application of capsaicin on the skin during a heart attack triggers certain sensory nerves, which, in turn, activate some signals in the nervous system. These signals activate pro-survival pathways in the heart muscle cells, reducing damage to the heart. Pre-treatment with capsaicin can reduce the injury associated with reperfusion, which occurs when blood returns to the heart tissues after a period of no blood supply, according to a study in the July 2008 issue of the Chinese journal "Sichuan Da Xue Xue Bao Yi Xue Ban." The University of Maryland Medical Center also points out that capsaicin can help treat heart conditions such as atherosclerosis and arrhythmia that lead to heart failure, but more research may be needed to prove these benefits conclusively. It is very important to remember that these benefits have been demonstrated in laboratory animals only and capsaicin should not substitute for the immediate medical care that is required during heart attack and heart failure.
Adverse Reactions
Capsaicin is generally safe to use, although the ointments can lead to burning, hives and contact dermatitis in rare cases. High doses of chili peppers also can increase high blood pressure and risk of heart attack in individuals with thyroid disorders. It also can interfere with certain hypertension, sedative and blood-thinning medications. Capsaicin is available at most local pharmacies without a prescription. However, it is important to consult a doctor before using it to treat heart problems. Inform the doctor about pre-existing conditions and other medications you might be taking. Make sure the product is FDA-approved or talk to a pharmacist to ensure the safety of the supplement.
References
- "Sichuan Da Xue Xue Bao Yi Xue Ban"; Protective Effect of Capsaicin on Against Myocardial Ischemia-Reperfusion Injury of Rat in Vivo; S. L.Qin, et al.; July 2008
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Cayenne
- Science Daily: Common Pain Cream Could Protect Heart During Attack, Study Shows
- Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center: Capsaicin
- Mayo Clinic: Capsaicin (Topical Route)
