Capsaicin For Psoriasis?

Posting Date: 04/17/2000

Q: You recently wrote that topical capsaicin might be useful in treating psoriasis. The person who wrote to you had found that eating hot peppers helped control his condition, but my heartburn prevents me from eating spicy foods. Are there creams or ointments that contain capsaicin?

A: Capsaicin is the ingredient that makes chile peppers taste hot. It is used in topical creams such as Capsin, Capzasin-P, Dolorac and Zostrix to treat arthritis and the pain that may follow an attack of shingles.

Dermatologists have reported that applying capsaicin to the skin may reduce the redness and itch of psoriasis. Check with your doctor before using this approach.

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