Capsaicin - what is it?

Capsaicin itself is the active chemical compound in a chilli pepper which are plants belonging to the genus capsicum.

Capsaicin is an irritant to all mammals including humans causing a stinging and burning sensation on contact with the skin or mucous membrane.  It is a colourless and odourless waxy compound that is water repellant and probably exists simply to protect the chilli plant from harm.

Capsaicin was first discovered in 1816 by Christian Friedrich Bucholz and since then has been studied by many scientists and its many effects and characteristics identified.

Capsaicin is mostly present in the white pithy parts of the chilli which holds the seeds and not the seeds themselves as is communal thought.  It is also present in the internal lining of the chilli and, to a lesser extent, the other fleshy parts of the fruit.

When people eat chillies they often experience a feeling of pleasure and even euphoria and this is caused by capsaicin.  This seems to be due to the pain-stimulated release of natural endorphins which are similar to opiates which are widely used in strong painkillers such as morphine and codeine.

Capsaicin itself is used as a painkiller in the form of creams and patches that are particularly useful in the treatment of nerve pain such as that experienced in shingles.  It is possible that it may play a part in the regulation of blood sugars and could have benefits in the treatment of obesity and diabetes.  Some have even suggested it may have a role in the prevention of certain cancers.
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/health/article-2121443/Chillis-Good-news-curry-fans--spicy-dish-key-healthy-heart.html

The effects of capsaicin are often used as a deterrent in products such as pepper spray and pest repellants.  It has recently been proposed that its incorporation into certain drugs might reduce the likelihood of the misuse of these drugs.

Seriously, it is a potent and dangerous compound and in very large doses could theoretically cause death.  We recently watched a video of a Naga Chilli curry eating contest where the winner collapsed and had to receive medical treatment before he was able to receive his award!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uJL7tXXd9xw

Like everything, "a little of what you fancy does you good" and anything consumed to excess can be harmful.  When consumed to excess capsaicin can cause nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain and burning diarrhoea.  If it gets into the eye or on other mucous membranes it can cause extreme pain and irritation.

At Capsaicinoia we are not promoting or encouraging the excessive consumption of extra hot chillies.  We simply want to celebrate and enjoy the chilli, its many varieties and its positive effects.  We want to have fun with chillies and hope you do too!