Posted by Francois (204.44.156.194) on February 07, 2000 at 21:04:28:
In Reply to: cipsaicin posted by Karen Yesalonis on February 07, 2000 at 19:37:41:
Been there. I have terrible, terrible pain along the cranial nerves on the left side of my head. A GP, not a neurologist, told me to try capsaicin to soothe the pain. So, why not...
Capsaicin comes as topical cream made from the essence of hot peppers. I used Zostrix brand. You rub it in until it disappears about four times per day. As you might guess, it makes the skin surface feel very warm, with a rather delightful burning sting. It is kind of soothing. The smell is a little wierd. And believe me, you won't forget to wash your hands.
It is primarily used by diabetics and arthritics to increase circulation in their hands. (After I started it, I found out that my father used it to reduce the effects of his diabetes. He puts it on his feet, too.)
Did it help me? Some. I would put it up there with Ben Gay or wrapping my head with a hot towel. All superficially pleasant.