Systematic review of topical capsaicin in the treatment of pruritus.

Summary: Do chili peppers hold the cure for chronic itching? Scientists reviewed six studies to see if capsaicin—the compound that gives chilies their heat—applied as a cream could relieve itching caused by various medical conditions, including kidney dialysis and nerve disorders. While some patients reported relief, the studies had significant flaws. Because capsaicin causes a burning sensation, it was difficult to hide who was getting the real medicine versus a placebo, potentially skewing the results. Consequently, there is currently no convincing evidence that capsaicin creams effectively cure itching, and better-designed research is needed to find the answer.