Peppermint (Water Pepper) liquid extract

Water pepper, or capsicum, is a plant whose fruit is used to produce an extract that can be used for medicinal or culinary purposes. In medicine, water pepper is sometimes used as an extract to treat pain, as its active components can have an analgesic effect when applied externally.

Water pepper contains capsaicin, a chemical that can cause a burning or tingling sensation when it comes into contact with the skin or mucous membranes. This effect may be useful in reducing pain in some conditions, such as muscle pain or neuralgia.

In cooking, water pepper extract can be used to add piquancy to dishes. It is added to various sauces, marinades, soups and other dishes to give them spiciness and aroma.

However, before using water pepper extract for medicinal or culinary purposes, it is recommended to consult with a doctor or nutritionist, especially if you have any medical problems or individual characteristics.

Indications Water pepper

1. Local anesthesia: Used to relieve pain from muscle pain, arthritis, neuralgia, radiculitis and other conditions.
2. Itch Relief: Can be used to relieve itching from insect bites, allergic skin reactions and other dermatological problems.
3. Local Skin Irritation: In some cases, water pepper can be used for local skin irritation, which helps improve blood circulation and local warming.
4. Stimulates blood circulation: Water pepper extract can be used to stimulate blood circulation in areas where it is needed, such as when treating colds.
5. Maintaining Skin Health: In some cases, water pepper can be used in cosmetics to maintain skin health.

Release form

Water pepper (Capsicum annuum) liquid extract is usually available in the form of a liquid solution for ease of use.

Pharmacodynamics

1. Analgesia: Capsaicin, the main biologically active component of water pepper, can block the transmission of pain signals to nerve cells, causing temporary pain relief. This is why the pepper is often used in ointments and creams for local pain relief.
2. Anti-inflammatory action: Capsaicin has the ability to reduce inflammation in tissues, which can help with rheumatic diseases, arthritis and other conditions associated with inflammation.
3. Stimulates blood circulation: Applying water pepper can help to dilate blood vessels and increase blood flow in the area of application.
4. Appetite regulation: Some studies suggest that capsaicin may increase metabolic rate and reduce hunger, which may be useful in the context of weight management.
5. Antimicrobial activity: Capsaicin has also been shown to inhibit the growth of certain types of bacteria and fungi, making water pepper potentially useful as an antimicrobial agent.

Pharmacokinetics

1. Absorption: When liquid water pepper extract is used internally, absorption occurs through the mucous membrane of the stomach and intestines. When used externally, absorption can occur through the skin.
2. Distribution: After absorption, capsicum can be distributed to organs and tissues. It can exert its pharmacological effects on pain receptors and blood vessels.
3. Metabolism and excretion: Capsicum is usually metabolized in the liver. Excretion may occur through the kidneys or bile.

Dosing and administration

1. Medical use:

   • External Use: Water pepper extract can be used to make ointments, creams, or gels to treat joint or muscle pain. For this purpose, the extract is usually diluted in oil or another inactive base substance and applied to the skin at the site of pain.
   • Dosage: Dosage may vary depending on individual needs and body response. It is generally recommended to start with a small amount and gradually increase the dose if necessary. It is important to follow the doctor's recommendations or the instructions on the drug package.

2. Culinary uses:

   • Pepper water extract can be used as a seasoning to add pungency and flavor to dishes. It is usually added to dishes in small quantities according to taste preferences.
   • Dosage: Dosage may vary depending on the recipe and taste preference. It is recommended to start with a small amount and adjust the dose according to preference.

3. Cosmetic use:

   • Water pepper extract can be added to cosmetics such as creams or skin masks to stimulate blood circulation and improve the appearance of the skin.
   • Dosage: Dosage varies by product and may be indicated on the product packaging or in the prescription.

Use Water pepper during pregnancy

During pregnancy, the use of any herbs and extracts, including water pepper, should be done with caution and under medical supervision.

Effects of water pepper during pregnancy:

• Hemostatic properties: Water pepper contains components that can promote blood clotting and can be used to reduce uterine bleeding after childbirth or in the postpartum period.
• Vitamin K: Vitamin K is important for normal blood clotting, and getting enough of it may be especially important during pregnancy and after childbirth to prevent bleeding.

Recommendations and precautions:

1. Consult with your doctor: Before using water pepper extract or any other herbal remedies during pregnancy, you should consult with your doctor. Your doctor will be able to assess the potential risks and benefits of using them in your particular case.
2. Dosage and Administration: If your doctor approves your use, you should strictly follow the recommended dosage and directions for use. Incorrect dosage may lead to unwanted effects.
3. Side Effects and Interactions: It is important to tell your doctor about all side effects, as well as all other medications and supplements you are taking, to avoid interactions.

Use in traditional medicine:

In some cultures, water pepper has traditionally been used to improve blood circulation and to aid postpartum recovery. However, there is limited scientific research to support its safety and effectiveness during pregnancy.

Contraindications

1. Sensitivity and Allergy: People with known sensitivity to water pepper or allergy to any components of the extract may develop an allergic reaction such as skin rash, itching, swelling or even anaphylaxis. In such cases, use of the extract should be discontinued.
2. Contact with eyes and mucous membranes: Contact of water pepper extract with eyes or mucous membranes may cause severe irritation, redness and burning. If the extract gets into your eyes, rinse them immediately with plenty of water.
3. Broken Skin: Applying the extract to broken or inflamed skin may increase irritation and cause more severe burns. It is not recommended to use the extract on open wounds, scratches or irritated skin.
4. Digestive Problems: For people with digestive problems such as stomach or intestinal ulcers, gastritis or reflux disease, the use of water pepper extract may increase symptoms and is contraindicated.
5. Pregnancy and breastfeeding: The safety of using water pepper extract during pregnancy and breastfeeding has not been established. Therefore, its use should be carried out only after consultation with a doctor.
6. Children: Use of the extract in children may be contraindicated due to the possibility of developing serious side effects such as skin burns or eye irritation.

Side effects Water pepper

1. Burning or tingling sensation: Applying water pepper extract to the skin may cause a burning or tingling sensation, especially at the site of application.
2. Skin reactions: Some people may develop irritation, redness or even blistering of the skin at the application site.
3. Allergic reactions: Some people may experience allergic reactions to capsaicin, which may include skin rash, itching, swelling, or even difficulty breathing.
4. Reactions to mucous membranes: Water pepper may cause a burning sensation or irritation if it comes into contact with mucous membranes, especially if used incorrectly.
5. Eye discomfort: Capsaicin can irritate the eyes if it gets into them, causing severe burning and tearing.
6. Increased sensitivity to cold: In some people, the use of water pepper may result in increased sensitivity to cold at the site of application.

Overdose

1. Severe irritation of the skin and mucous membranes: An overdose of water pepper can cause burns of the skin and mucous membranes, manifested by redness, tingling, burning and pain.
2. Increased heart rate: High doses of capsaicin can cause increased heart rate and even arrhythmia in some people.
3. Stomach and Digestive Problems: Overdose may cause vomiting, nausea, abdominal pain and diarrhea.
4. Difficulty breathing: In some cases, capsaicin may irritate the airways, leading to difficulty breathing or asthma attacks.
5. Systemic reactions: In rare cases, overdose may cause severe allergic reactions, and more serious complications such as anaphylaxis are also possible.

Interactions with other drugs

1. Drugs that affect bleeding: Water pepper may enhance the effect of anticoagulants or antiplatelet drugs such as acetylsalicylic acid (aspirin) or warfarin. This may increase the risk of bleeding.
2. Hypertension medications: Water pepper may enhance the hypotensive effects of medications used to treat high blood pressure, such as calcium antagonists or ACE inhibitors.
3. Pain medications: Water pepper may enhance the effects of analgesics such as paracetamol or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).
4. Gastrointestinal medications: Water pepper may increase the irritating properties of gastrointestinal medications, such as some antacids or medications containing bismuth.
5. Cardiovascular drugs: Water pepper may enhance the effects of some drugs used to treat heart failure or arrhythmia.