Capsaicin

    Written by:
    Morgan Pfiffner

    Fact-checked

    by:

    Nick Milazzo
    Last Updated: March 4, 2024

    Capsaicin is a molecule found in hot peppers that creates the sensation of spiciness by activating the heat receptor TRPV1. Ingestion of capsaicin may improve exercise performance, but it appears mostly ineffective for fat loss. When applied topically, capsaicin can reduce pain.

    Overview

    Dosage information

    Capsaicin/capsaicinoids are typically given in doses ranging from about 1.2 to 12 mg, although some studies have used up to 135 mg per day.[1]

    Capsaicin-containing supplements are usually sold in the form of dried chili pepper powder (e.g, cayenne). A capsule containing 500 mg of dried cayenne pepper contains around 1.2 mg of capsaicin.

    Frequently asked questions

    Update History

    Fixed sample sizes on a handful of meta-analyses

    correction

    Research written by

    Morgan Pfiffner