Meta Information

ID:capsaicin

Name:Capsaicin

Schema Version:1.5

Title

Capsaicin

Alternate Names

• Chili Pepper Extract
• 8-methyl-N-vanillyl-6-nonenamide

Intervention Type

therapeutic_agent

Expected Cost Mean

Low Cost:

10

High Cost:

30

Cost Type:

monthly

Description:

Cost for daily oral supplementation from common consumer brands.

Summary

Capsaicin is the active compound in chili peppers that activates the TRPV1 receptor, influencing pain signaling, inflammation, and metabolism. Its relevance to healthspan is based on its potential to improve metabolic health, reduce chronic low-grade inflammation, and manage pain. Large observational studies have correlated regular consumption of spicy foods with a reduction in all-cause mortality.

Purpose

Supports metabolic health, pain management, and anti-inflammatory pathways.

Card Summary

The active compound in chili peppers, potentially supporting metabolic health and reducing inflammation.

Drug Class

Drugs In Class

Empty Array

Impact

Score:

4.5

Justification:

Benefits primarily in metabolic health and pain, with observational links to mortality.

Evidence

Grade:

B

Score:

6.5

Justification:

Human trials for specific endpoints; longevity data is primarily large-scale observational studies.

Safety

Score:

3.2

Justification:

Generally recognized as safe (GRAS), but can cause significant gastrointestinal distress.

Flags

• May cause significant gastrointestinal side effects, including stomach pain, cramping, and heartburn.
• Can interact with blood thinners (e.g., warfarin) and certain blood pressure medications.
• May worsen symptoms for individuals with GERD or Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS).
• Topical application frequently causes a burning sensation and skin irritation.

Verdict

A plausible dietary addition for metabolic health, not a core longevity intervention.

Created

2026-04-23T22:58:31.415613Z

Model

Gemini 3.1 Pro (High)

Delivery

Route:

oral

Scope:

• systemic

Indication

Focus:

healthspan

Description:

Capsaicin is the active compound in chili peppers that activates the TRPV1 receptor, influencing pain signaling, inflammation, and metabolism. Its relevance to healthspan is based on its potential to ...

Typical Protocol

• Oral supplementation of 2-6 mg of capsaicinoids daily, often taken with meals to reduce gastrointestinal upset.