When it comes to seeking alternative treatments for medical conditions, many Americans choose non-vitamin, non-mineral natural products such as herbal supplements, according to the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine Center. Cayenne has been used as an herbal supplement for thousands of years by Native Americans, Asians and Indians. Cayenne is found in some over-the-counter supplements used to treat gynecomastia. However, research is not available to support its use for such conditions.
Gynecomastia
Gynecomastia is a condition that affects boys and men. It causes the breast tissue to swell due to a decrease in testosterone levels compared to estrogen levels, creating an imbalance in hormone levels. Gynecomastia commonly occurs during adolescence and as men get older. Men with liver and kidney disease are also at risk, as well as men who take anabolic steroids. The swelling breasts can cause some pain, but it does not cause any health problems. However, men find the enlarged breast tissue embarrassing.
Cayenne
Cayenne is a spice used in Cajun, Creole and Asian cooking. As an herbal medicine, it has been used as a treatment for digestion, poor appetite and circulation. Its active ingredient, capsaicin, also is used for pain relief. When applied to the skin, capsaicin reduces the chemical signals for pain to your brain. It is used as a form of treatment for people with osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, pain after surgery and lower back pain. Capsaicin cream can also reduce the swelling and itchiness caused by psoriasis.
Gynecomastia and Cayenne
Cayenne is found in herbal supplements intended to reduce gynecomastia. However, no studies have been conducted to support its use in reducing male breast tissue. Obesity is a risk factor for gynecomastia, and losing weight may help to reduce breast size. The University of Maryland Medical Center reports that some preliminary studies show that cayenne increases satiety at meals, which may help to promote weight loss. But, more studies are needed. Talk to your doctor before adding cayenne supplements to your diet to help treat your gynecomastia.
Treatment for Gynecomastia
Gynecomastia usually goes away on its on in about two years, according to MayoClinic.com. Or, you may require additional treatment if it does not go away, or if it causes pain. Common treatments include medication or surgery. Medication options include tamoxifen and raloxifene, which are medications traditionally used to treat breast cancer. If medications do not work, liposuction or a mastectomy may be necessary.
