For those who suffer from nerve pain from peripheral neuropathy, you know the daily struggle. Burning, tingling, foot discomfort, and relentless nerve aching that just won’t quit. You’ve likely tried your fair share of creams, pills, and patches. And among the overwhelming volume of products that make outlandish claims, how do you know what really works? One smart way to narrow it down is by reading the ingredients.

Welcome to the beginning of our blog series where we focus on the top ingredients you should prioritize when selecting a topical cream to manage nerve and pain issues in your hands and feet. First up: Capsaicin.

Does Capsaicin Reduce Inflammation?

Yes—and here’s how. Capsaicin, the compound responsible for the heat in chili peppers, works by targeting a receptor in your body called TRPV1 (Transient Receptor Potential Vanilloid 1). Think of TRPV1 like a fire alarm for your nerves. When something is too hot or physically irritating, this receptor goes off, sending signals to your brain to feel pain.

Now here’s the twist: when capsaicin binds to TRPV1, it initially sets off that fire alarm (hence the burning sensation when you first apply a capsaicin pain relief cream), but over time, it desensitizes that receptor. This means your nerves become less reactive and less able to scream "PAIN!" in response to ongoing stimulation.

A study published in the journal Pain confirmed that repeated use of capsaicin resulted in a significant reduction in inflammation and hypersensitivity, particularly for conditions like neuropathy.

Does Capsaicin Improve Blood Flow?

Another lesser-known benefit of capsaicin is its role in enhancing blood flow.

When capsaicin is applied topically, it causes vasodilation — the widening of blood vessels — in the affected area. This allows more oxygen and nutrients to reach the tissues and nerves that are struggling, helping to speed up healing and reduce nerve aching.

Think of it like opening more lanes on a traffic-jammed highway. More cars (in this case, blood and nutrients) can get through quickly, helping relieve the congestion (inflammation and pain) in the area.

Several clinical trials, including one published in The Journal of Clinical Pharmacology, have found that topical capsaicin significantly increased localized blood flow, promoting healing in patients with peripheral neuropathy.

The History of Capsaicin

Capsaicin isn’t a trendy new invention. It has a long history of therapeutic use.

Used for centuries in traditional medicine systems like Ayurveda and Traditional Chinese Medicine, capsaicin has been applied to treat everything from muscle pain to arthritis to skin infections. Indigenous tribes across the Americas used chili-based poultices to warm aching joints and soothe nerve pain long before capsaicin was isolated in the lab.

It wasn’t until the late 19th century that scientists first identified capsaicin as the primary active component in hot peppers. By the 1980s, capsaicin began gaining traction in modern medicine, especially for its role in pain management. Today, it is recognized by the FDA and included in a wide variety of pain relief creams and patches.

Is Capsaicin Safe to Use?

This is a great question—especially if you’re worried about slathering something "hot" on already sensitive skin. Here’s the good news: capsaicin is safe when used as directed.

Most topical products available over the counter contain low to moderate concentrations (typically 0.025% to 0.1%). These levels are well below any harmful thresholds.

However, higher-concentration capsaicin products (like those used in prescription-strength patches) should only be applied by a healthcare provider because they can cause a temporary burning sensation, redness, or even blistering if not handled correctly.

For daily home use, capsaicin-containing creams offer a gentle, natural pain relief option that avoids the side effects of oral medications like dizziness, drowsiness, or gastrointestinal issues. Always test a small area first and wash hands thoroughly after applying.

Why Nerve Balm Is the Top Product for Pain Management in Neuropathy

We can’t talk about capsaicin without spotlighting Nerve Balm, a leading natural pain relief cream designed specifically for peripheral neuropathy.

Nerve Balm uses capsaicin as one of its foundational ingredients, blended with other soothing botanicals and skin-nourishing agents to maximize both pain relief and comfort.

Here’s what makes Nerve Balm different:

• Targeted for nerve and pain relief: Unlike generic creams, Nerve Balm is formulated specifically for nerve painkiller effects, making it ideal for conditions like diabetic neuropathy, chemotherapy-induced neuropathy, and post-surgical nerve discomfort.

• Fast-absorbing and non-greasy: Its smooth texture makes it easy to apply multiple times a day without leaving residue.

• Clinically supported ingredients: Every active ingredient, from capsaicin to MSM and arnica, has clinical backing for its role in nerve and pain relief.

• Loved by users: Thousands of users have reported improved mobility, reduced foot discomfort, and a notable decline in nerve aching within days or weeks of consistent use.

If you’re searching for a nerve painkiller that offers real results without harsh chemicals, Nerve Balm is your go-to solution.

Choose Ingredients That Are Tried, True, and Clinically Proven

Living with neuropathy can feel isolating and frustrating, but relief is possible. Instead of relying on flashy marketing claims, focus on ingredients that are backed by science.

Capsaicin stands out as one of the most effective natural pain relief agents for nerve pain and foot discomfort. It reduces inflammation, boosts circulation, and teaches overactive nerves to calm down—all while being safe and easy to use.

In this series, we’ll continue exploring more powerhouse ingredients. But for now, if you’re looking to start your healing journey with something real, proven, and gentle on your body, capsaicin-based products like Nerve Balm are a great place to begin.

Stay tuned for our next post, and here’s to more comfortable steps ahead