Chili Pepper Ingredient Can Help Ease Sinus Problems

(A. Kotok)

A study led by a University of Cincinnati allergy researcher has found that a nasal spray containing an ingredient derived from hot chili peppers (Capsicum annum) may help relieve certain types of sinus inflammation. The findings by Jonathan Bernstein of the UC medical school and colleagues appear in the August issue of the journal Annals of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology (paid subscription required).

Capsicum annum contains capsaicin, which is the main component of chili peppers and produces a hot sensation. A solution that contains only 10 parts per million produces a persistent burning sensation when placed on the tongue. Capsaicin is also an active ingredient in topical medications used for temporary pain relief, one of which has been approved by the Food and Drug Administration for relief after shingles attacks.

In higher concentrations, capsaicin can be dangerous, even toxic. It is the active ingredient, for example, in pepper sprays used for personal defense or riot control.

Bernstein’s research tested the compound ICX72, the main ingredient in the over-the-counter Sinus Buster nasal spray containing Capsicum annum, versus a placebo in a randomized, double-blind trial with 42 subjects over two weeks.  The subjects were experiencing nonallergic rhinitis, a condition involving chronic sneezing or a congested, drippy nose with no apparent cause, such as an allergy or hay fever.

The study showed that participants who used a nasal spray with capsicum reported a faster onset of action or relief, on average within a minute of using the spray, than the control group. The researchers also found no difference in adverse reactions between the test and control groups.

The research was funded by Dynova Laboratories, where Bernstein serves as a paid consultant.

*     *     *