Traditional claims surrounding the use of capsicum include treatment of bowel disorders, chronic laryngitis, and peripheral vascular disease. Various preparations of capsicum have been applied topically as counterirritants and external analgesics. Topical capsaicin preparations are useful for treating pain associated with diabetic neuropathy, osteoarthritis, postherpetic neuralgia postsurgical pain (including postmastectomy and postamputation pain), rheumatoid arthritis, and other neuropathic pain and complex pain syndromes

Capsaicin has been suggested for refractory pruritus and pruritus associated with renal failure. A small study has suggested that nasal inhalation of capsaicin may be beneficial in nonallergic, noninfectious perennial rhinitis. Poor tolerability may be of issue with larger clinical trials. One study has reported capsaicin's use for urinary urgency. Capsaicin is also increasingly popular as a nonlethal self-defense spray.