How to Cure Pepper Burns

The chemicals in hot peppers cause burning.

Hot peppers are used as spices in a variety of foods from many cultures. The spice adds flavor to the dish, but it can be irritating to the inside of your mouth. Overexposure to hot pepper can result in anything from a slight burning sensation to a serious burn. The degree to which an individual is exposed determines the severity of the burn and the type of treatment needed.

Things You'll Need

• Milk, ice cream or yogurt
• Olive oil or canola oil
• Over-the-counter sore threat medication
• Oral anesthetic

Instructions

1. Drink milk as soon as you feel pain from the hot pepper burning your mouth or lips. Milk coats the irritated surfaces and has a soothing effect. If you don't have milk on hand, ice cream or yogurt may help.

2. Coat the burn with olive oil or canola oil to further alleviate the pain.

3. Drink lukewarm water as often as possible to help keep the burn clean and avoid infection.

4. Use an over-the-counter sore throat spray. This will help reduce inflammation and ease the pain associated with pepper burns.

5. Apply oral anesthetics to serious burns to numb the pain further and to help with healing.

Tips & Warnings

• Avoid drinking alcohol until the burn is fully healed.

• If the pepper is burning your eyes, contact your doctor or emergency services immediately.

• Do not use sprays or ointments that are labeled "For external use only."

• If blisters or infection occur, consult with your doctor.

References

• Free MD: Hot Pepper Burn Treatment