Spectral evidence of interaction of spice constituents with hepatic microsomal cytochrome P-450

Spectral evidence has been obtained of the interaction of constituents of two commonly used spices, capsicum and cinnamon, with hepatic microsomal cytochrome P-450. It is proposed that influences of spice constituents on hepatic mixed-function oxidase activities may merit consideration during the investigation of some health-related problems characteristic of, or peculiar to, a given region or cultural group. An example considered relates to the evaluation of certain 'traditional medicines'.