Tendinitis is a musculoskeletal health problem associated with inflammation of one of your tendons -- thick, rubbery cords of connective tissue that attach your muscles to bones. According to the National Health Service of the United Kingdom, two leading causes of tendinitis are sports-related tendon injuries and repetitive strain injuries. Visit your primary care provider at your earliest convenience to better understand the role of cayenne and other herbs in treating your tendinitis.
Tendinitis and Health
Symptoms of tendinitis are often difficult to distinguish from bursitis, a condition caused by inflammation of the fluid-filled sacs that lie between your bones and various soft tissues. According to the Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, some of the most common symptoms of tendinitis and bursitis include joint pain, pain in the affected area that is worse at night or with movement and significantly decreased joint or body-segment range of motion. Tendinitis affects people of all ages although it is more commonly seen in the elderly.
About Cayenne
Cayenne is a type of pepper that comes from the Capsicum annuum plant -- a shrubby plant indigenous to the tropics. Cayenne pepper, also known as chili or red hot pepper, is used both for medicinal and culinary purposes and is an important inclusion in the cuisines of several countries, including China, Italy and Mexico. Cayenne peppers contain several important medicinal constituents, including capsaicin -- a substance responsible for the fruit's pungent effects -- carotenoids, volatile oils and vitamins A and C.
Cayenne Actions and Uses
Cayenne can be ingested or applied topically to help treat a variety of health problems. In his book "The Healing Power of Herbs," naturopathic physician and herbal medicine expert Michael T. Murray says that when cayenne is applied to your skin or mucus membranes, it may help activate inflammatory mediators in various soft tissues, which helps reduce pain and speed healing. This herbal remedy has historically been used in treating tendinitis, osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. However, as of 2011 more scientific evidence using randomized controlled trials may be needed to assess the true efficacy of this herb.
Considerations
Tendinitis can linger or recur and keep you from enjoying the activities of daily living. Report to your primary care provider if you develop the common signs and symptoms of this health problem. Your physician can tell you about the most effective natural healing methods to address your tendinitis as well as the risks, side effects and potential drug interactions associated with natural healing substances, including cayenne. Cayenne can worsen coughing in people who are taking angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors and may effect the levels of theophylline -- a drug used in treating respiratory illnesses --in people taking this medication.
References
- National Health Service: Tendonitis
- Cedars-Sinai Medical Center: Bursitis and Tendonitis
- "The Healing Power of Herbs"; Michael T. Murray, N.D.; 1995
