CapsiBurn: Aura Scientific’s Advanced Thermogenic Fat Burning Ingredient

Introduction: The Rise of Thermogenic Ingredients

The supplement industry has long sought effective thermogenic ingredients that can support healthy weight management without relying on stimulants. While many ingredients have come and gone, researchers have increasingly turned their attention to bioactive compounds found in common foods that have demonstrated promising effects on metabolism and energy expenditure.^[1]

One such compound, capsaicin – the active component in chili peppers – has emerged as a particularly promising candidate. This naturally-occurring compound has been shown to increase energy expenditure and fat oxidation through unique pathways that don’t rely on traditional stimulant mechanisms.^[2]

However, capsaicin supplementation has faced several challenges that have limited its widespread adoption. The compound’s natural pungency can make it difficult to tolerate, especially at doses needed for optimal effects. Additionally, traditional delivery methods often result in gastric discomfort, leading to poor compliance and inconsistent results.^[3]

Introducing Aura Scientific CapsiBurn – Improved Thermogenesis

Aura Scientific’s CapsiBurn represents an innovative solution to these long-standing challenges. By utilizing a novel CLA-based delivery system, CapsiBurn aims to maintain capsaicin’s beneficial metabolic effects while addressing the tolerability issues that have historically limited its use in supplementation.

Capsaicin from Cayenne and Tobasco Pepper, Encapsulated by CLA

CapsiBurn doesn’t just have a novel encapsulation system, though. Unlike other extracts, which are normally just cayenne pepper based, Aura Scientific also added famous Tobasco peppers to round out the profile. This not only provides the great thermogenic health benefits, but makes it easier to flavor and easier for manufacturers to deal with, especially with the CLA encapsulation.

In this article, we’re going to deep-dive into capsaicin’s effects on human metabolism, exploring mechanisms and the numerous trials supporting its use in weight loss and fat reduction. Then we’ll dig into the Aura Scientific advantage, with CapsiBurn’s solution to common capsaicin problems.

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Understanding Capsaicin’s Effects on Metabolism

To fully understand how CapsiBurn works to enhance metabolism, we first need to explore capsaicin – the primary bioactive compound that gives chili peppers their characteristic heat and beneficial metabolic properties.

What is Capsaicin?

Capsaicin (8-methyl-N-vanillyl-6-nonenamide) is the most abundant and well-researched member of a family of compounds called capsaicinoids that naturally occur in chili peppers (Capsicum species).^[4] Together with dihydrocapsaicin, capsaicin makes up approximately 77-98% of the capsaicinoids present in peppers, making it the predominant compound responsible for both the pungency and metabolic effects of chili peppers.^[5]

From a chemical perspective, capsaicin’s structure allows it to interact with specific receptors in the body that influence metabolism and energy expenditure. The compound contains a vanillyl group (which gives vanilla its flavor) connected to a fatty acid chain through an amide bond.^[6] This unique molecular structure enables capsaicin to activate specialized receptors called TRPV1 channels, which play a crucial role in its metabolic effects.^[7]

The amount of capsaicin in peppers is typically measured in Scoville Heat Units (SHU), with higher numbers indicating greater pungency. While common jalapeño peppers might range from 2,500-8,000 SHU, other varieties like habaneros can exceed 300,000 SHU.^[8] Cayenne pepper rests right in the middle of these, ranging from 40,000 to 100 000 SHU.^[9]

As we’ll discuss below, CapsiBurn utilizes a standardized extract to ensure consistent potency and reliable effects, while its innovative CLA coating technology helps manage the compound’s natural pungency.

TRPV1 Receptor Activation

At the molecular level, capsaicin works by binding to and activating specialized proteins called TRPV1 receptors (Transient Receptor Potential Vanilloid type 1). These receptors are widely distributed throughout metabolically active tissues, making them excellent targets for metabolic enhancement.^[10]

Triggering calcium signaling

When capsaicin binds to TRPV1, it triggers a cascade of cellular events that begins with calcium signaling. The receptor acts as a calcium channel – when activated, it allows calcium ions to flow into cells, initiating several key metabolic processes, including:^[11,12]

• Activation of calcium/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase (CAMKK2)
• Stimulation of AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK)
• Enhanced expression of PPARγ coactivator-1α (PGC-1α)
• Increased transcription of genes involved in thermogenesis and fat oxidation

These signaling events ultimately lead to increased energy expenditure and enhanced fat utilization, which we’ll explore in more detail in the following sections.

A stimulant-free pathway

What makes TRPV1 activation additionally useful is that it represents a non-stimulant pathway for enhancing metabolism. Unlike caffeine or other stimulants that work primarily through the sympathetic nervous system, capsaicin’s interaction with TRPV1 provides a different avenue for supporting metabolic health.^[2]

Recent research has also revealed that TRPV1 activation by capsaicin triggers cellular responses that go beyond simple thermogenesis. These receptors play a crucial role in regulating energy metabolism, particularly in adipose tissue, where they can influence how the body stores and utilizes fat.^[12]

Primary Mechanisms of Action

This brings us to some of the primary mechanisms of action:

• Activation of Thermogenesis

  The first and most well-documented mechanism through which capsaicin supports metabolic health is through the activation of thermogenesis – literally the production of heat in the body. When capsaicin activates TRPV1 receptors, it initiates a process that increases energy expenditure through enhanced heat production.^[13]

  Meta-analysis data shows that capsaicin supplementation can increase energy expenditure by roughly 50 calories per day^[2] – which may seem modest, but accumulates over time. More importantly, this effect appears to be most pronounced in individuals with higher BMIs,^[3] suggesting that those who need it most may benefit the most.

  Again, these effects occur without the CNS stimulation, making CapsiBurn an excellent option for those seeking metabolic support without relying on stimulants,^[1] although it can definitely be stacked in with stimulants as well.

• White to Brown Fat Conversion

  One of capsaicin’s most fascinating effects is its ability to stimulate the “browning” of white adipose tissue (WAT). This process, where energy-storing white fat cells take on characteristics of energy-burning brown fat cells, represents a significant metabolic advantage.^[11]

  

  Capsaicin activates TRPV1 channels to trigger browning of white adipose tissue (WAT), promoting fat-burning thermogenesis.^[11]

  Through TRPV1 activation, capsaicin promotes the expression of key thermogenic genes, most notably UCP-1 (uncoupling protein 1) and BMP8b (bone morphogenetic protein 8b).^[11] These proteins are hallmarks of brown adipose tissue and are crucial for increasing energy expenditure.

  This conversion process is particularly important because white adipose tissue typically stores excess energy as fat, while brown adipose tissue actively burns calories to produce heat.^[14,15] By promoting this transition, capsaicin helps create more metabolically active fat tissue, potentially leading to greater caloric expenditure even at rest.^[2]

• Metabolic rate enhancement, and preventing metabolic slowdown

  Beyond the acute thermogenic effects previously discussed, capsaicin appears to help prevent the metabolic slowdown that typically occurs during caloric restriction. Research shows that when subjects are in a caloric deficit, capsaicin supplementation can help maintain energy expenditure rates that would otherwise decline.^[13]

  Again, this effect on metabolic rate appears most beneficial in those with higher BMIs.^[2]

• Fat oxidation improvement

  Research demonstrates that capsaicin can enhance fat oxidation – the body’s ability to break down and utilize stored fat for energy.^[1]

  Multiple meta-analysis findings suggest an interesting shift in substrate utilization when supplementing with capsaicin. Data shows an increased preference for fat oxidation over carbohydrate utilization, suggesting capsaicin may help optimize the body’s fat-burning capacity.^[13]

  These metabolic improvements appear to be particularly pronounced during caloric restriction, where capsaicin supplementation helps maintain healthy fat oxidation rates that might otherwise decline during dieting.^[13] This effect, combined with its ability to support metabolic rate, makes capsaicin a potentially valuable tool for supporting healthy body composition goals.

The Research Behind Capsaicin

Clinical research on capsaicin’s effects on body composition and metabolism has grown substantially over the past decade, with several comprehensive meta-analyses documenting its potential benefits for weight management:

Meta-analysis findings on weight loss

• A 2014 meta-analysis by Whiting et al. examined energy intake data from 74 clinical trials, ultimately including 8 studies in their final analysis. The researchers found that capsaicin supplementation before meals reduced ad libitum energy intake by 309.9 kJ (74 kcal) during meals. This suggests that capsaicin may help support weight management efforts through reductions in energy intake.^[1]
• A 2018 meta-analysis by Zsiborás et al. evaluated 9 studies examining capsaicin’s effects on energy expenditure and fat oxidation. The analysis revealed that capsaicin supplementation increased energy expenditure by approximately 50 kcal per day and decreased respiratory quotient, indicating enhanced fat oxidation. Notably, these effects were most pronounced in individuals with higher BMIs.^[2]
• A 2021 meta-analysis by Irandoost et al. evaluated 13 studies examining capsaicin’s effects on thermogenesis. The researchers found that capsaicin supplementation significantly increased resting energy expenditure (REE) by approximately 34 kcal/day and reduced respiratory quotient (RQ), indicating enhanced fat oxidation.^[16]

  Notably, these thermogenic effects were more pronounced in studies lasting 6-12 weeks compared to shorter interventions and in capsule form rather than powder form. The researchers also found that capsaicin supplementation increased fat oxidation by 0.18 g/hour and reduced carbohydrate oxidation, suggesting a shift toward fat utilization.^[16]

  

  Meta-analysis of capsaicin’s effects on body weight across 12 clinical trials from 1998-2021. Results demonstrate a significant overall reduction in body weight (-0.51 kg) with capsaicin supplementation.^[3]

  This meta-analysis bridged the gap between earlier findings on acute effects and longer-term metabolic adaptations, providing moderate-quality evidence that capsaicin can sustainably enhance thermogenesis when taken regularly. The researchers noted that capsaicin’s effects appeared most beneficial in supplemental form rather than through dietary intake alone.

• The most recent meta-analysis (2023) by Zhang et al. analyzed 15 randomized controlled trials with 762 participants, the largest meta-analysis to date. Their findings showed that capsaicin supplementation resulted in significant reductions in:^[3]
  • BMI (-0.25 kg/m²)
  • Body weight (-0.51 kg)
  • Waist circumference (-1.12 cm) These effects were particularly notable in studies lasting 6-12 weeks compared to shorter interventions.

All together, the analyses above paint a very clear picture of capsaicin’s effects — but there’s a few more things we can tease out when looking at individual studies in the sections to follow.

BMI-dependent effects

The meta-analysis data cited above consistently shows that capsaicin’s metabolic effects are more pronounced in individuals with higher BMIs.^[2]. Several key findings in individual studies help explain this relationship:

• Energy expenditure impacts

  In a controlled 4-week trial, subjects with BMI ≥ 25 kg/m² showed significant increases in oxygen consumption and energy expenditure when supplementing with capsaicin, while those with lower BMIs showed lesser changes. Additionally, fat oxidation showed a strong positive correlation with BMI, which is perfect for the dieting demographic at hand.^[17]

• Appetite and food intake effects

  Users and non-users of spicy foods respond differently to capsaicin supplementation. A key study found that capsaicin reduced energy intake by about 66 kcal in non-users during a test meal, while regular spicy food users showed no significant reduction. Interestingly, non-users also demonstrated greater decreases in preoccupation with food and desire to eat fatty, salty, and sweet foods.^[18]

• Fat oxidation enhancement

  Studies reveal that fat oxidation increases are particularly notable in those with higher BMIs, with some research showing increases up to 0.8 g/hr in individuals with BMI ≥ 25 kg/m².^[17]

• Metabolic flexibility benefits

  Higher-BMI individuals tend to show greater improvements in respiratory quotient (RQ), suggesting enhanced metabolic flexibility and fat utilization when supplementing with capsaicin.^[2]

These findings suggest that capsaicin supplementation may be particularly beneficial for individuals with higher BMIs who are seeking to improve their body composition. The enhanced metabolic response in this population could make capsaicin a valuable tool for supporting weight management efforts in those who need it most.

Energy Expenditure Impacts

Research demonstrates that capsaicin influences energy expenditure through multiple pathways and timeframes:

• Acute Effects

  Capsaicin can generate significant immediate increases in energy expenditure. In a landmark study, researchers found that capsaicin supplementation increased energy expenditure by approximately 30% during the first hour after consumption.^[19] This acute effect appears to be powered by β-adrenergic stimulation, as evidenced by studies showing that β-blockers like propranolol abolish the immediate thermogenic response.^[19]

• Sustained Effects

  While acute effects are notable, longer-term studies show more modest but still meaningful impacts:

  • Meta-analysis data indicates capsaicin can increase daily energy expenditure by approximately 50 calories.^[2]
  • During weight maintenance periods after weight loss, capsaicin supplementation helps sustain higher energy expenditure compared to placebo, potentially supporting better weight maintenance outcomes.^[20]

  However, one mechanism mentioned above is worth returning to:

β-adrenergic stimulation?!

Seeing that one study demonstrated β-adrenergic stimulation^[19] leads us to wonder if capsaicin is stimulatory. First, recall that it works primarily through TRPV1 receptor activation, which then leads to downstream effects that include some β-adrenergic activation.^[18]

This pathway is fundamentally different from direct CNS stimulation that you get from ingredients like caffeine. The distinctions are important:

1. Capsaicin acts through TRPV1 channels first, with metabolic effects being secondary responses – it’s not directly stimulating the CNS.^[16]
2. Studies have shown that capsaicin doesn’t increase heart rate or blood pressure in the way that traditional stimulants do.^[3]
3. The β-adrenergic effects appear to be localized to metabolic tissues rather than causing systemic stimulation.^[20]

So while capsaicin does indirectly involve some β-adrenergic pathway activation, it’s incorrect to classify it as a stimulant.

Appetite and Food Intake Effects

Meta-analysis data discussed above shows that capsaicin supplementation can meaningfully reduce energy intake. Systematic review of multiple clinical trials found that taking capsaicin before meals led to an average reduction of 74 calories during subsequent meals – a modest but potentially meaningful effect when sustained over time.^[1]

Most significant to those who don’t eat spicy foods

Research indicates that the appetite-suppressing effects may be strongest in those new to spicy foods. In a controlled study, participants who didn’t regularly consume spicy foods experienced a reduction of about 66 calories at a meal when taking capsaicin, while regular spicy food consumers showed minimal changes. Interestingly, these “non-users” also reported decreased cravings for fatty, salty and sweet foods compared to regular users.^[18]

However, hunger control effects appear more pronounced in acute settings versus long-term use. While studies show reliable appetite reduction in single-meal experiments, research examining sustained appetite control over weeks or months tends to show more modest effects.^[20]

This suggests that while capsaicin can be a useful tool for appetite management, especially for those new to spicy foods, its effects may be most impactful when combined with other weight management strategies rather than relied upon as a standalone solution for long-term appetite control. This isn’t unexpected – dietary supplement ingredients are supplemental to proper diet and exercise routines, and aren’t meant to be the intervention themselves.

Fat Oxidation Effects

As mentioned above, meta-analysis data suggests an interesting shift in substrate utilization when supplementing with capsaicin. Data shows an increased preference for fat oxidation over carbohydrate utilization, suggesting capsaicin may help optimize the body’s fat-burning capacity.^[16]

These metabolic improvements appear to be particularly pronounced during caloric restriction, where capsaicin supplementation helps maintain healthy fat oxidation rates that might otherwise decline during dieting.^[13]

One key study demonstrated that capsaicin treatment caused sustained fat oxidation during weight maintenance compared to placebo after weight loss. Even with similar weight regain patterns, the capsaicin group maintained higher fat oxidation rates (4.2 ± 1.1 g/h vs. 3.5 ± 0.9 g/h) and had a lower respiratory quotient, indicating a greater reliance on fat metabolism.^[20]

This effect on substrate utilization may help explain why capsaicin’s benefits seem most pronounced in individuals with higher BMIs, who typically have more stored fat available for oxidation.^[17]

With these phenomenal effects, it’s no wonder why capsaicin is popular in the diet world. However, it comes with a caveat — the spice!

Thankfully, Aura Scientific has pioneered a way to limit the GI distress (and manufacturing mess) that comes with other spice-based thermogenic ingredients:

CapsiBurn: Innovation in Delivery

While capsaicin’s metabolic benefits are well-documented, widespread adoption has been limited by two key challenges:

1. intense pungency, and
2. potential gastrointestinal discomfort

Aura Scientific’s CapsiBurn represents a novel solution to these long-standing obstacles through an innovative delivery system that maintains capsaicin’s beneficial metabolic effects while improving tolerability.

What is CapsiBurn?

CapsiBurn is a standardized capsaicin extract derived from both cayenne and tobasco peppers, uniquely encapsulated in conjugated linoleic acid (CLA). This dual-source approach provides a more complete capsaicinoid profile compared to traditional cayenne-only extracts.

The ingredient is standardized to deliver consistent doses of bioactive capsaicinoids while utilizing CLA’s protective properties to reduce the burning sensation and gastric irritation typically associated with concentrated capsaicin supplements.

CLA Coating Technology

The key innovation behind CapsiBurn lies in its CLA-based delivery system. Rather than simply mixing capsaicin with CLA, Aura Scientific employs a specialized encapsulation process that creates a protective lipid barrier around the capsaicin molecules.

This encapsulation technology provides several advantages:

• Reduced oral pungency upon ingestion
• Improved gastric tolerability
• Protection of capsaicin through digestion
• More consistent absorption and bioavailability

While CapsiBurn doesn’t provide enough CLA to make any level of health claims, it’s good to see that they used a fatty acid that’s known in the weight loss world, and not some fat molecule with negative health research on it.

Manufacturing Advantages

CapsiBurn’s unique formulation offers several benefits for supplement manufacturers:

• Improved handling and worker safety due to reduced airborne capsaicin
• Better powder flow characteristics
• Enhanced stability and shelf life
• Easier incorporation into finished products
• Reduced risk of cross-contamination during manufacturing

Aura Scientific has more information provided to customers and manufacturers in their specification documents. The products are tested for heavy metals, microbials, and overall purity.

Dosage & Usage

CapsiBurn is to be dosed at 100mg per day.

The research shows that capsaicin’s metabolic effects are dose-dependent, with most studies indicating benefits at 2mg of capsaicinoids per serving.^[1,3]

For CapsiBurn specifically, the recommended minimum dosage is 50mg per serving, which provides clinically-relevant amounts of capsaicinoids while maintaining palatability through its unique CLA-based delivery system.

Timing Strategies

Research indicates that capsaicin’s thermogenic effects are most pronounced when taken with meals. The studies generally used three divided doses throughout the day with meals.^[20] This suggests an optimal strategy of:

• Taking CapsiBurn 2-3 times per day
• Timing doses with meals
• Spacing doses at least 4-6 hours apart for sustained effects throughout the day

Tolerance Considerations

An interesting aspect of capsaicin supplementation is that regular users may develop some tolerance to its effects over time.^[18] However, research shows that the metabolic benefits persist even in regular users of spicy foods, particularly regarding fat oxidation.^[19]

Thanks to CapsiBurn’s protective CLA coating, users typically experience less gastric discomfort compared to standard capsaicin supplements.

However, it’s still recommended to:

• Start with a single daily dose to assess tolerance
• Gradually increase to the full recommended dosage
• Take with food rather than on an empty stomach
• Stay well-hydrated throughout the day

What to Expect

When using CapsiBurn at recommended doses, users may experience:^[18]

• A mild warming sensation after consumption (less pronounced than standard capsaicin supplements due to the CLA coating)
• Increased energy expenditure, particularly in the hours following meals
• Enhanced fat oxidation during exercise and rest
• Moderate appetite reduction, especially among those not accustomed to spicy foods

Those with higher BMIs may experience more pronounced effects, as research indicates greater metabolic responses to capsaicin supplementation in this population.^[17]

Safety & Considerations

In addition to the studies cited below, capsicum is considered FDA GRAS (Generally Recognized as Safe) in two categories:

• Essential oils, oleoresins (solvent-free), and natural extractives (including distillates)^[22]
• Spices and other natural seasonings and flavorings.^[23]

Cayenne pepper is also GRAS.^[23] This is definition is backed up by more recent data showing safety in supplemental use:

Safety Profile

Capsaicin has a well-established safety profile when consumed in usual dietary amounts, and research indicates that supplemental doses like those in CapsiBurn are generally safe in healthy adults.^[3] Meta-analyses have shown no significant adverse effects on key health markers such as:^[16]

• Blood pressure
• Heart rate
• Standard clinical blood parameters
• Liver and kidney function markers

The CLA coating in CapsiBurn helps further mitigate the most common complaint with capsaicin supplements – GI discomfort.

Population Considerations

Capsaicin’s effects may vary among different populations:

• BMI Status: Individuals with higher BMIs tend to show more pronounced metabolic responses to capsaicin supplementation^[17]
• Spicy Food Tolerance: Regular consumers of spicy foods may experience reduced acute effects, though the metabolic benefits appear to persist^[18]
• Age and Gender: Current research shows similar effectiveness across adult age groups and genders^[3]

Contraindications

CapsiBurn (and all pepper-based ingredients) should be avoided by:

• Individuals with active gastrointestinal conditions, acid/bile reflux, or ulcers
• Those with known sensitivities to capsaicin or nightshade vegetables
• Pregnant or nursing women (due to limited research in these populations)
• Individuals with bleeding disorders or about to undergo surgery
• Those taking certain medications that affect blood clotting

Remember to take with meals, avoid taking too close to bedtime, space doses throughout the day, start with a lower dose to assess tolerance, and stay well-hydrated. Discontinue use or reduce dose if experiencing any negative effects.

The conservative approach is always to consult with a qualified healthcare provider before beginning any new supplement regimen, particularly if you have pre-existing medical conditions or are taking medications, especially blood thinners or interventions for blood pressure, diabetes, and/or acid reflux.

Capsaicin and CLA the Aura Scientific Way with CapsiBurn

The science behind capsaicin’s effects on metabolism and weight management is compelling – we’ve covered extensive research showing its benefits for thermogenesis, fat oxidation, and appetite control. However, its intense pungency and manufacturing challenges have limited widespread adoption in supplements. This is where Aura Scientific’s CapsiBurn brings true innovation to the table.

By combining both cayenne and tobasco pepper extracts with a novel CLA-based delivery system, CapsiBurn addresses the two major limitations that have held capsaicin back: tolerability for users and processability for manufacturers. The CLA coating serves multiple purposes – it helps reduce the burning sensation that many users struggle with while simultaneously making the ingredient easier to work with during the manufacturing process. As an added bonus, CLA itself has a history of use in the weight management category.

The recommended 100mg daily dose of CapsiBurn provides clinically-relevant amounts of capsaicinoids while maintaining palatability. For supplement brands looking to formulate effective thermogenic products, CapsiBurn offers a science-backed solution that won’t have customers complaining about excessive heat or manufacturers struggling with production challenges.

Between its dual-source capsaicinoid blend, innovative delivery system, research-supported benefits, and improved user experience, CapsiBurn represents a significant advancement in thermogenic ingredient technology. Whether used in standalone fat burners or as part of comprehensive weight management formulas, CapsiBurn provides formulators with a reliable, well-tolerated option for harnessing capsaicin’s metabolic benefits.

For consumers seeking an evidence-based thermogenic aid and manufacturers wanting a more manageable capsaicin ingredient, CapsiBurn delivers a win-win solution that moves the category forward. While proper diet and exercise remain the foundation of any weight management program, CapsiBurn stands out as a worthy supplemental tool backed by both science and smart formulation.

You can see a listing of CapsiBurn-based supplements we’ve discussed on the PricePlow Blog below — they’ll include ProSupps Thermo and Enhanced Labs Shred — but first, sign up for our Aura Scientific news alerts so that you don’t miss any other CapsiBurn content: