The idea put forward by Henk Blom concerning the effects of capsaicin on the nose is an interesting
one. Maybe the nose feels clearer because of a reduction in the number / activity of warm
receptors. It is also interesting that in the mouth menthol inhibits the sensation of warmth - see
Green, B. G. (1984). "Menthol Modulates Oral Sensations of Warmth and Cold." Physiology &
Behaviour 35: 427-434.
Green, B. G. (1986). "Menthol inhibits the perception of warmth." Physiology & behaviour 38:
833-838.
Many new common cold medicines in the 'Vicks' range contain both menthol and a chemical that
gives a warm sensation. This combination of warm and cold sensations creates a really cool
sensation with a great impact on the patient. Throat lozenges with both warm and cold sensates
need less menthol than conventional throat lozenges to create the same cool sensation.
As regards the general clinical effects of capsaicin on the nose I believe that there may be a very
big placebo effect to the treatment which is difficult to control as capsaicin has a great sensory
impact on the nose- any comments ?
Kind Regards
Ron Eccles
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