New publications
Preparations
Water pepper extract
Last reviewed: 07.06.2024
All iLive content is medically reviewed or fact checked to ensure as much factual accuracy as possible.
We have strict sourcing guidelines and only link to reputable media sites, academic research institutions and, whenever possible, medically peer reviewed studies. Note that the numbers in parentheses ([1], [2], etc.) are clickable links to these studies.
If you feel that any of our content is inaccurate, out-of-date, or otherwise questionable, please select it and press Ctrl + Enter.
Water pepper extract, also known as cinnamon, is a liquid extract obtained from the Capsicum annuum plant, also known as water pepper. This type of pepper has a spicy taste and aroma, and its extract can be used in cooking, in the production of food additives and in various medical preparations.
Water pepper extract can have a variety of uses:
- In cooking: It can be used to spice and flavor food. It is added to sauces, marinades, soups, meat, fish and vegetable dishes.
- Medicinally: Water pepper extract can be used in natural remedies to treat certain health conditions. It has antibacterial, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties and can be used to relieve pain, relieve itching or to improve blood circulation.
- In cosmetics: Water pepper extract can be added to cosmetic products such as creams and lotions to improve blood circulation, stimulate hair growth and reduce skin inflammation.
- In dietary supplements: Water Pepper Extract can be used as a dietary supplement to improve digestion, stimulate appetite and increase overall body tone.
However, it should be remembered that water pepper extract has a sharp flavor and may cause irritation of the mucous membranes or gastrointestinal tract if used excessively. Therefore, it should be used with caution, following recommended dosages. It is recommended to consult a physician or specialist before use for medicinal purposes or as a dietary supplement.
Indications Water pepper extract
- Food additive: In cooking, water pepper extract can be used to spice and flavor dishes. It can be added to sauces, marinades, soups, meat, fish and vegetable dishes.
- Antibacterial and anti-inflammatory effects: In medicine, water pepper can be used for its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. It can help fight infections and inflammation such as sore throat, colds and other respiratory infections.
- Improving circulation: Water pepper may help improve circulation due to its irritating effect. This can be useful in treating hypotension and some skin conditions associated with inadequate blood supply.
- Appetite stimulation: Water pepper can stimulate appetite and improve digestion due to its spicy flavor and irritating effect on the gastric mucosa.
- Improved metabolism: Some studies suggest that water pepper extract may help speed up metabolism and increase calorie intake, which may be beneficial for weight loss.
Release form
Liquid extract (tincture): This is the most common form of release, which is an extract obtained by macerating (soaking) water pepper in an alcohol solution. The liquid extract is usually taken orally in a few drops or diluted in water as directed or recommended by a practitioner.
Pharmacodynamics
- Analgesic action: Capsaicin has the ability to reduce sensitivity to pain by activating receptors in nerve endings known as vanilloid receptor type 1 (VR1 or TRPV1). This leads to a decrease in the transmission of pain signals in the central nervous system and a reduction in pain sensation.
- Anti-inflammatory effects: Capsaicin may reduce inflammation by inhibiting the synthesis of inflammatory mediators such as prostaglandins and cytokines and reducing inflammatory cell activity.
- Antimicrobial Action: Some studies have shown that capsaicin has antimicrobial properties and can kill or inhibit the growth of some pathogens such as bacteria and fungi.
- Circulatory stimulation: Capsaicin can dilate blood vessels and improve blood circulation in the area of its application, which helps to reduce swelling and accelerate tissue regeneration.
- Metabolism and Weight Loss Stimulation: Some studies suggest that capsaicin may increase thermogenesis (heat production) and speed up metabolism, which may promote weight loss and improve metabolic profile.
Pharmacokinetics
- Absorption and distribution: Capsaicin may be absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract after consumption of food containing water pepper extract. It may be rapidly distributed in body tissues, especially those in contact with digested food.
- Metabolism: Capsaicin can be metabolized in the liver to form various metabolites. One of the main pathways of metabolism is oxidation and glucuronidation.
- Excretion: Metabolites of capsaicin are eliminated from the body mainly through the kidneys in the form of conjugates with glucuronic acid.
- Time of Action: The effects of capsaicin may occur within a few hours of consuming products containing water pepper extract.
- Bioavailability: The bioavailability of capsaicin may be low due to its instability in the intestine and rapid metabolization.
Interactions with other drugs may be mainly due to changes in the rate of metabolism or excretion of other drugs in the body. In particular, in case of simultaneous use of capsaicin and drugs metabolized by the same enzymes in the liver, there may be a competitive effect on these processes, which may lead to changes in the concentration of drugs in the blood.
Dosing and administration
The following are general guidelines for using the most common forms of water pepper extract:
Liquid extract (tincture) for oral administration:
- Dosage for adults: It is usually recommended to take 20-30 drops diluted in a small amount of water 3-4 times a day before meals. The dosage may be adjusted depending on the health condition and the body's reaction.
- Dosage for children: The use of water pepper extract in children should be done only under the supervision of a doctor, who will determine the dosage and appropriateness of use depending on the age and weight of the child.
Important Notes:
- It is important to consult with a medical professional before using water pepper extract to treat a specific condition.
- Be careful when using tincture of water pepper because of its alcohol base, especially when treating children or people with alcohol allergies.
- When applying externally, avoid contact with eyes, mouth or other mucous membranes. In case of contact, rinse the area immediately with plenty of water.
- If you notice a worsening of your condition, development of allergic reactions, or other side effects after using water pepper extract, discontinue use immediately and seek medical attention.
Use Water pepper extract during pregnancy
During pregnancy, you should be careful about consuming large amounts of red pepper or its extracts, especially if the pregnant woman has food reactions or sensitivities to spicy foods.
Although small amounts of red pepper in cooking are generally safe for most pregnant women, large doses or concentrated forms such as extracts can cause gastrointestinal irritation and increased heartburn in some people, which may be particularly undesirable during pregnancy.
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity or allergic reaction: People allergic to pepper or other plant products may have an allergic reaction to water pepper extract.
- Increased stomach acidity or peptic ulcer disease: Pepper can stimulate the release of acid in the stomach and aggravate symptoms of peptic ulcer disease or other gastrointestinal conditions.
- Digestive problems: In some people, eating peppers can cause stomach discomfort, heartburn, excessive gas or diarrhea.
- Cardiovascular Disease: In people with serious cardiovascular disease, such as arrhythmia or hypertension, consuming large amounts of peppers can lead to increased symptoms or complications.
- Interactionswith medicines: Interactions of water pepper with certain medicines may lead to undesirable effects. For example, it may increase the effects of medications to lower blood pressure.
Side effects Water pepper extract
- Irritation of mucous membranes: When consumed orally, water pepper extract may cause irritation of the mucous membranes of the digestive tract, which may manifest as burning, redness or discomfort in the stomach or intestines.
- Skin reactions: External application of water pepper extract may cause skin irritation, redness, itching or burning. If direct skin contact occurs, rinse the area with water and seek medical attention if severe discomfort occurs.
- Allergic Reactions: Some people may have an allergic reaction to water pepper. This may manifest as a skin rash, difficulty breathing, swelling of the throat or face. If allergic symptoms occur, medical attention should be sought immediately.
- Gastrointestinal Reactions: In some people, use of water pepper extract may cause diarrhea, heartburn, nausea, or vomiting.
- Deterioration insome conditions: In people with gastrointestinal conditions such as peptic ulcer disease, reflux disease, or irritable bowel syndrome, consuming water pepper extract may worsen symptoms and cause an exacerbation.
Overdose
An overdose of water pepper extract, or capsaicin, can cause serious side effects due to its sharp and irritating effects on the body. The main symptoms of an overdose may include:
- Severe burning and irritation of the skin or mucous membranes: Direct contact of capsaicin with the skin or mucous membranes may cause burning, irritation, redness and even burns.
- Pain and discomfort: An overdose of capsaicin can cause increased pain, discomfort and even intolerable pain.
- Breathingproblems: If high concentrations of capsaicin are inhaled, respiratory problems including choking and difficulty breathing may occur.
- Digestive problems: An overdose of capsaicin can also cause digestive problems including nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.
- Allergic Reactions: Some people may experience allergic reactions to capsaicin, such as itching, hives, or swelling.
Interactions with other drugs
- Blood pressure medications: Water pepper extract may increaseblood pressure, especially when used in high doses. Therefore, it should be used with caution in patients taking antihypertensive medications to avoid unwanted increases in blood pressure.
- Preparations for gastrointestinal disorders: Capsaicin, contained in water pepper extract, may stimulate gastric juice secretion and increase peristalsis. Therefore, its use may affect the effectiveness of drugs used to treat peptic ulcers, heartburn, and other gastrointestinal disorders.
- Drugs for pain and inflammation: Capsaicin may enhance the analgesic effect of opioids and some non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. However, it should be remembered that its concomitant use may also increase the risk of irritation of the gastric and intestinal mucosa.
- Preparations for external use: Capsaicin may enhance the analgesic effect of some topically applied anesthetics and analgesic ointments. However, skin irritation and skin hypersensitivity may also occur with external use.
- Cardiovascular drugs: Given the possible effect of capsaicin on blood pressure, its use may be contraindicated in patients with cardiovascular disease or in concomitant use of cardiotonic drugs.
Attention!
To simplify the perception of information, this instruction for use of the drug " Water pepper extract" translated and presented in a special form on the basis of the official instructions for medical use of the drug. Before use read the annotation that came directly to medicines.
Description provided for informational purposes and is not a guide to self-healing. The need for this drug, the purpose of the treatment regimen, methods and dose of the drug is determined solely by the attending physician. Self-medication is dangerous for your health.