Capsaicin cream burn. Capsaicin Cream: Benefits, Uses, and Precautions for Pain Relief

17.10.202108.06.2023 by alexxlab

What are the benefits of capsaicin cream for pain relief. How does capsaicin work to reduce pain. What precautions should be taken when using capsaicin topically. What are the potential side effects of capsaicin cream.

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Understanding Capsaicin: The Active Ingredient in Pain Relief Creams

Capsaicin, the compound responsible for the heat in chili peppers, has found its way into the world of pain relief. This natural substance is now a key ingredient in various topical medications designed to alleviate muscle and joint pain. But how does it work, and what should you know before using it?

Capsaicin works by creating a heating sensation on the skin, which activates certain nerve cells. With consistent use, this heating effect reduces the amount of substance P, a chemical messenger that transmits pain signals in the body. This unique mechanism of action makes capsaicin an effective option for those seeking relief from various types of pain.

Common Uses of Capsaicin Cream

Temporary relief of muscle pain
Joint pain from arthritis
Sprains and strains
Backaches
Bruising-related discomfort

Capsaicin’s versatility in addressing different types of pain has made it a popular choice for many seeking over-the-counter pain relief options.

The Science Behind Capsaicin’s Pain-Relieving Properties

To fully appreciate the benefits of capsaicin cream, it’s essential to understand the science behind its pain-relieving properties. When applied topically, capsaicin interacts with the body’s pain receptors in a unique way.

Capsaicin binds to a specific protein called TRPV1, which is found on the surface of pain-sensing nerve cells. This binding action initially causes a burning sensation, which may seem counterintuitive for pain relief. However, this initial discomfort serves a purpose.

With repeated exposure to capsaicin, the nerve cells become less sensitive to pain signals. This desensitization process is what leads to the long-term pain-relieving effects of capsaicin cream. Additionally, the reduction in substance P levels further contributes to pain relief by disrupting pain signal transmission.

The Role of Substance P in Pain Perception

Substance P is a neuropeptide that plays a crucial role in pain perception. It is released by nerve cells in response to various stimuli, including tissue damage and inflammation. By reducing the levels of substance P, capsaicin effectively dampens the pain signals sent to the brain, resulting in decreased pain perception.

Proper Application and Usage of Capsaicin Cream

To maximize the benefits of capsaicin cream while minimizing potential side effects, it’s crucial to follow proper application and usage guidelines. Here are some key points to remember:

Clean and dry the affected area before application
Apply a thin layer of cream to the skin, avoiding open wounds or irritated areas
Wash hands thoroughly after application to prevent accidental transfer to sensitive areas
Use gloves or applicators if treating pain in hands or fingers
Do not apply heat or bandages to the treated area
Avoid bathing or showering for at least an hour before and after application

How often should capsaicin cream be applied? The frequency of application can vary depending on the specific product and the condition being treated. Generally, most capsaicin creams are applied 3-4 times daily. However, it’s essential to follow the instructions provided with your specific product or as directed by your healthcare provider.

Potential Side Effects and Precautions

While capsaicin cream is generally considered safe for topical use, it’s important to be aware of potential side effects and take necessary precautions. The most common side effect is a burning sensation at the application site, which typically diminishes with continued use.

Common Side Effects

Burning or stinging sensation
Redness of the skin
Itching
Skin dryness

Can capsaicin cream cause serious side effects? While rare, some individuals may experience more severe reactions. If you experience intense pain, swelling, or blistering at the application site, discontinue use and seek medical attention immediately.

It’s crucial to avoid getting capsaicin cream in your eyes, nose, or mouth. If accidental contact occurs, rinse thoroughly with cool water. Additionally, be cautious when using capsaicin cream on sensitive skin areas or if you have a history of skin conditions.

Comparing Capsaicin to Other Topical Pain Relievers

Capsaicin cream is just one of many topical pain relief options available. Understanding how it compares to other common treatments can help you make an informed decision about which option might be best for your needs.

Capsaicin vs. NSAIDs

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like diclofenac and ibuprofen are also available in topical formulations. Unlike capsaicin, which works by altering pain signal transmission, NSAIDs reduce inflammation to alleviate pain. NSAIDs may be more effective for conditions with significant inflammation, while capsaicin might be preferable for neuropathic pain.

Capsaicin vs. Menthol

Menthol-based creams provide a cooling sensation that can temporarily relieve pain. While both capsaicin and menthol work through sensory stimulation, capsaicin offers longer-lasting effects due to its impact on substance P levels. Menthol may be preferred by those who find the warming sensation of capsaicin uncomfortable.

Capsaicin vs. Lidocaine

Lidocaine is a local anesthetic that numbs the area where it’s applied. It provides quick relief but doesn’t address the underlying cause of pain. Capsaicin, on the other hand, offers longer-term benefits by altering pain signal transmission. Lidocaine may be more suitable for acute, localized pain, while capsaicin is often used for chronic conditions.

Capsaicin in Clinical Practice: Evidence-Based Applications

The use of capsaicin in pain management has been the subject of numerous clinical studies. Understanding the evidence behind its effectiveness can help both healthcare providers and patients make informed decisions about its use.

Osteoarthritis

Several studies have shown that capsaicin cream can be effective in managing pain associated with osteoarthritis, particularly in the knees and hands. A systematic review published in the Journal of Clinical Rheumatology found that capsaicin was significantly more effective than placebo in reducing pain intensity in patients with osteoarthritis.

Neuropathic Pain

Capsaicin has shown promise in treating various types of neuropathic pain, including diabetic neuropathy and post-herpetic neuralgia. A high-concentration capsaicin patch (8%) has been approved by the FDA for treating these conditions, demonstrating the potential of capsaicin in managing complex pain syndromes.

Musculoskeletal Pain

For acute musculoskeletal pain, such as sprains and strains, capsaicin cream has been found to provide effective relief. A study published in the British Journal of Sports Medicine reported that capsaicin cream was more effective than placebo in reducing pain and improving function in patients with acute soft tissue injuries.

While these studies provide encouraging evidence for the use of capsaicin in pain management, it’s important to note that individual responses may vary. Consulting with a healthcare provider can help determine if capsaicin cream is an appropriate option for your specific condition.

Formulations and Concentrations: Choosing the Right Capsaicin Product

Capsaicin is available in various formulations and concentrations, each designed for specific uses and levels of pain relief. Understanding these options can help you choose the most appropriate product for your needs.

Over-the-Counter Options

Most over-the-counter capsaicin products contain concentrations ranging from 0.025% to 0.1%. These are typically available as creams, lotions, or patches and are suitable for general muscle and joint pain relief.

0.025% – 0.075%: Mild to moderate pain relief
0.1%: Stronger pain relief, often used for arthritis pain

Prescription Strength Capsaicin

For more severe or chronic pain conditions, higher concentration capsaicin products are available by prescription. The most notable is the 8% capsaicin patch, which is used for neuropathic pain conditions.

How do you determine the right concentration for your needs? It’s generally recommended to start with a lower concentration and gradually increase if needed. Always consult with a healthcare provider before using higher concentration products, as they may require special application procedures and monitoring.

Novel Delivery Systems

Research is ongoing into new ways to deliver capsaicin for pain relief. Some innovative formulations include:

Microneedle patches: These use tiny needles to deliver capsaicin more deeply into the skin
Nanoparticle formulations: These aim to improve absorption and reduce side effects
Combination products: Capsaicin combined with other pain-relieving ingredients for enhanced effects

These novel delivery systems may offer improved efficacy and reduced side effects compared to traditional formulations, potentially expanding the therapeutic applications of capsaicin in pain management.

Integrating Capsaicin Cream into a Comprehensive Pain Management Plan

While capsaicin cream can be an effective tool for pain relief, it’s often most beneficial when used as part of a comprehensive pain management strategy. Integrating capsaicin with other treatments and lifestyle modifications can enhance its effectiveness and provide more comprehensive relief.

Complementary Therapies

Capsaicin cream can be used alongside other pain management techniques to enhance overall relief. Some complementary approaches include:

Physical therapy: Strengthening and stretching exercises can improve joint function and reduce pain
Massage: Can help relax muscles and improve circulation in painful areas
Acupuncture: May help reduce pain and inflammation in some individuals
Heat and cold therapy: Can be alternated with capsaicin application for enhanced relief

Lifestyle Modifications

Certain lifestyle changes can complement the pain-relieving effects of capsaicin cream:

Maintaining a healthy weight: Reduces stress on joints and muscles
Regular exercise: Improves overall strength and flexibility
Stress management: Techniques like meditation can help reduce pain perception
Proper ergonomics: Ensuring good posture and proper body mechanics can prevent pain

How can you create an effective pain management plan incorporating capsaicin cream? Start by discussing your pain concerns with a healthcare provider. They can help you develop a tailored plan that may include capsaicin cream along with other appropriate treatments and lifestyle modifications.

Remember that pain management is often a process of trial and error. Be patient and willing to adjust your approach as needed to find the most effective combination of treatments for your individual needs.

Capsaicin Topical (Zostrix) – Side Effects, Interactions, Uses, Dosage, Warnings

Use Capsaicin Topical (Zostrix) exactly as directed on the label, or as prescribed by your doctor. Do not use in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended.

Use exactly as directed on the label, or as prescribed by your doctor. The Qutenza brand of capsaicin is applied only by a healthcare professional and is not available over the counter.

Do not take by mouth. Topical medicine is for use only on the skin.

Capsaicin is available in different forms, such as a cream, lotion, liquid, and skin patch. Read and carefully follow any Instructions for Use provided with your medicine. Ask your doctor or pharmacist if you do not understand these instructions.

Do not use this medicine on open wounds or on sunburned, windburned, dry, chapped, or irritated skin. If this medicine gets in your eyes, nose, mouth, rectum, or vagina, rinse with water.

Make sure your skin is clean and dry before you apply capsaicin topical.

Wash your hands with soap and water immediately after applying capsaicin topical or handling a topical skin patch. If you have applied the medicine to your hands or fingers to treat pain in those areas, wait at least 30 minutes before washing your hands.

To prevent getting this medicine on your fingers, use a rubber glove, finger cot, cotton ball, or clean tissue to apply the medicine.

Capsaicin can cause a burning sensation wherever it is applied. Even if the medicine gets on a surface other than your skin, you may feel burning when you later touch that surface. This sensation is usually mild and should gradually lessen over time with continued regular use of the medicine.

If the burning sensation is painful or causes severe discomfort, wash the treated skin area with soap and cool water. Get medical attention right away if you have severe burning, pain, swelling, or blistering.

Do not cover treated skin with a bandage or heating pad, which can increase the burning sensation. You may cover the skin with clothing.

Avoid taking a bath or shower within 1 hour before or after you apply capsaicin to your skin. Also avoid swimming or vigorous exercise. Warm water or perspiration can increase the burning sensation caused by capsaicin.

Avoid getting capsaicin topical in your eyes or near your nose where you might inhale it. If it does get into any of these areas, rinse thoroughly with water.

Also avoid getting this medicine on contact lenses, dentures, and other items that come into contact with sensitive areas of your body.

It may take up to 2 weeks of using this medicine regularly before your symptoms improve. For best results, keep using the medicine as directed. Pain relief should occur gradually as the substance P in your body is decreased in the nerve cells.

Call your doctor if your pain does not improve after using this medicine for 7 days, or if your symptoms get worse or get better and then come back in a few days.

Store capsaicin topical at room temperature away from moisture and heat, in a place where children and pets cannot get to it.

Capsaicin topical liquid is flammable. Do not use or store near fire or open flame.

Capsaicin topical Uses, Side Effects & Warnings

Generic name: capsaicin topical [ kap-SAY-sin-TOP-i-kal ]
Brand names: Capsin, Capzasin-HP, Castiva Warming, Icy Hot with Capsaicin, Menthac Arthritis Cream with Capsaicin,
… show all 34 brands
Qutenza, Sloan’s Liniment, Zostrix, Zostrix-HP, Dolorac, RT Capsin, Trixaicin, Trixaicin HP, Capzasin-P, Capzasin-HP Arthritis Formula, Salonpas Pain Patch with Capsaicin, Dr.s Cream, Analgesic Balm with Capsaicin, Capsicum Oleoresin, Zostrix Sports, Axsain, Icy Hot PM, Capzasin Back and Body, Salonpas Gel-Patch, Zostrix Neuropathy, Zostrix Diabetic Foot Pain, Zostrix Foot Pain, Zostrix Maximum Strength, Zostrix Maximum Strength Foot Pain, Zostrix High Potency Foot Pain, Zostrix High Potency Arthritis Pain, Salonpas-Hot, Aspercreme Warming Pain Relief Patch, DiabetAid

Dosage forms: topical cream (0. 025%; 0.033%; 0.035%; 0.075%; 0.1%; 0.25%), topical film (0.025%), topical kit (8%), topical liquid (0.025%), topical lotion (0.025%; 0.035%; 0.075%)
Drug class: Miscellaneous topical agents

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com on Nov 21, 2022. Written by Cerner Multum.

What is capsaicin topical?

Capsaicin is the active ingredient in chili peppers that makes them hot. Capsaicin is used in medicated creams and lotions to relieve muscle or joint pain.

Capsaicin used on the body causes a sensation of heat that activates certain nerve cells. With regular use of capsaicin, this heating effect reduces the amount of substance P, a chemical that acts as a pain messenger in the body.

Capsaicin topical is used for temporary relief of muscle or joint pain caused by strains, sprains, arthritis, bruising, or backaches. Capsaicin topical is also used to treat nerve pain (neuralgia) in people who have had herpes zoster, or “shingles.”

Qutenza is a prescription-strength form of capsaicin topical that is applied by a healthcare professional. Qutenza is used to treat nerve pain caused by herpes, and also to treat nerve pain in the feet (peripheral neuropathy) in people with diabetes.

Capsaicin topical may also be used for purposes not listed in capsaicin topical guide.

Warnings

Do not use this medicine if you are allergic to chili peppers, or if you have ever had an allergic reaction to capsaicin topical.

Capsaicin can cause a burning sensation wherever it is applied. If you have severe discomfort or skin redness, wash the treated skin area with soap and cool water.

Get medical attention right away if you have severe burning, pain, swelling, or blistering of the skin where you applied this medicine.

Before taking this medicine

Do not use capsaicin topical if you are allergic to chili peppers, or if you have ever had an allergic reaction to capsaicin topical.

Tell your doctor if you have ever had:

Ask a doctor before using this medicine if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Do not apply capsaicin topical to your breast area if you are breastfeeding a baby.

Do not use this medicine on anyone younger than 18 years old without the advice of a doctor.

How should I use capsaicin topical?

Use exactly as directed on the label, or as prescribed by your doctor. The Qutenza brand of capsaicin is applied only by a healthcare professional and is not available over the counter.

Do not take by mouth. Topical medicine is for use only on the skin.

Capsaicin is available in different forms, such as a cream, lotion, liquid, and skin patch. Read and carefully follow any Instructions for Use provided with your medicine. Ask your doctor or pharmacist if you do not understand these instructions.

Do not use this medicine on open wounds or on sunburned, windburned, dry, chapped, or irritated skin. If this medicine gets in your eyes, nose, mouth, rectum, or vagina, rinse with water.

Make sure your skin is clean and dry before you apply capsaicin topical.

To prevent getting this medicine on your fingers, use a rubber glove, finger cot, cotton ball, or clean tissue to apply the medicine.

Capsaicin can cause a burning sensation wherever it is applied. Even if the medicine gets on a surface other than your skin, you may feel burning when you later touch that surface. This sensation is usually mild and should gradually lessen over time with continued regular use of the medicine.

If the burning sensation is painful or causes severe discomfort, wash the treated skin area with soap and cool water. Get medical attention right away if you have severe burning, pain, swelling, or blistering.

Do not cover treated skin with a bandage or heating pad, which can increase the burning sensation. You may cover the skin with clothing.

Avoid getting capsaicin topical in your eyes or near your nose where you might inhale it. If it does get into any of these areas, rinse thoroughly with water.

Also avoid getting this medicine on contact lenses, dentures, and other items that come into contact with sensitive areas of your body.

Call your doctor if your pain does not improve after using this medicine for 7 days, or if your symptoms get worse or get better and then come back in a few days.

Store capsaicin topical at room temperature away from moisture and heat, in a place where children and pets cannot get to it.

Capsaicin topical liquid is flammable. Do not use or store near fire or open flame.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Use the missed dose as soon as you remember. Skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose. Do not apply capsaicin more than 4 times in one day, or use extra medicine to make up a missed dose.

A missed dose of capsaicin topical will not cause harm but may make the medicine less effective reducing substance P and relieving your pain.

What happens if I overdose?

Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222, especially if anyone has accidentally swallowed it.

Accidental swallowing of capsaicin can cause severe burning in or around the mouth, watery eyes, runny nose, and trouble swallowing or breathing.

Applying too much capsaicin topical to the skin can cause severe burning or redness.

What should I avoid while using capsaicin topical?

Avoid inhaling the odor or dried residue of capsaicin topical. Inhaling capsaicin can cause coughing, sneezing, or watery eyes, and can irritate your throat or lungs.

Avoid touching your eyes, mouth, nose, genitals, or rectum until the medicine has been washed off your hands. Also avoid handling food while the medicine is still on your hands.

Avoid exposing treated skin to sunlight, sunlamps, tanning beds, or a hot tub. Capsaicin can cause a burning sensation that may be made worse by heat.

Do not use other medicated skin products, including muscle pain creams or lotions, on areas where you have applied capsaicin, unless your doctor has told you to.

Capsaicin topical side effects

Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Wash the skin and get medical attention right away if you have severe burning, pain, swelling, or blistering of the skin where you applied capsaicin topical.

Capsaicin topical may cause serious side effects. Stop using capsaicin topical and call your doctor at once if you have:

Common side effects may include pain or a burning sensation that can last for several hours or days (especially after your first use of capsaicin topical).

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Capsaicin topical dosing information

Usual Adult Dose for Postherpetic Neuralgia:

Qutenza(R): Up to 4 patches applied to intact, non-irritated, dry skin, and allowed to remain in place for 60 minutes

Comments:
-Treatment may be repeated not more frequently than every three months.
-The patch should be applied by a physician or by a health care professional under the supervision of a physician.

Use: Management of neuropathic pain associated with postherpetic neuralgia

Usual Adult Dose for Pain:

Salonpas(R)/Capsaicin(R)/Capzasin(R): Apply to affected area not more than 3 to 4 times a day

Uses: For the temporary relief of minor aches and pains of the muscles and joints associated with simple backache, strains, sprains, bruises, arthritis

Zostrix(R): Apply a thin film to the affected area two to four times daily, and gently rub in until fully absorbed

Comments: Unless being treated, hands should be washed thoroughly with soap and water immediately after use.

Uses: For the temporary relief of minor aches and pains of the muscles and joints associated with strains, sprains, bruises, arthritis

Usual Adult Dose for Diabetic Nephropathy:

Qutenza(R): Up to 4 patches applied to intact, non-irritated, dry skin on the feet, and allowed to remain in place for 30 minutes

Comments:
-Treatment may be repeated not more frequently than every three months.
-The patch should be applied by a physician or by a health care professional under the supervision of a physician.

Use: Management of neuropathic pain in the feet associated with diabetic peripheral neuralgia

Usual Pediatric Dose for Pain:

Salonpas(R)/Capsaicin(R):
-Adolescents 12 years and older: Apply to affected area not more than 3 to 4 times a day

Uses: For the temporary relief of minor aches and pains of the muscles and joints associated with simple backache, strains, sprains, bruises, arthritis

What other drugs will affect capsaicin topical?

It is not likely that other drugs you take orally or inject will have an effect on topically applied capsaicin. But many drugs can interact with each other. Tell each of your health care providers about all medicines you use, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

Popular FAQ

Yes, Qutenza is a prescription skin patch that contains capsaicin, the active ingredient that gives the heat to a chili pepper. It contains 8% capsaicin (179 mg) per patch. Continue reading

Further information

Remember, keep this and all other medicines out of the reach of children, never share your medicines with others, and use this medication only for the indication prescribed.

Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.

Medical Disclaimer

What to do if your hands burn after hot pepper

September 2, 2011

Health

Italians love pepperoncino, habanero and other spicy peppers, jalapenos, which are simply indispensable in the preparation of many dishes. But getting rid of them is not an easy task. Their juice literally eats into the skin, creating a hellish burning sensation. It’s good that Lifehacker knows how to save.

The cause of severe burning is capsaicin. It is an oily substance found in all types of hot peppers. In moderation, it adds piquancy to the dish, pleasantly burns the taste buds. However, capsaicin can burn on contact with the skin.

How to get rid of burning sensation

1. Bleach + water

Some families still use bleach to disinfect everything and everything. If your house also has a bag or two lying around, know that bleach converts capsaicin into a water-soluble salt.

Dilute one part bleach in five parts water. Soak your hands in this solution, and then simply wash with soap and water.

2. Baking soda + water or liquid soap

Burning oils can be neutralized with sodium bicarbonate. Make a slurry of baking soda and water, apply to the affected areas of the skin, let dry and rinse thoroughly.

Another option is to mix baking soda with liquid soap. Rub the resulting paste on your hands, then rinse it with vinegar and rinse with water.

3. Alcohol

Capsaicin is also soluble in alcohol. Therefore, any alcohol-containing cosmetic product (lotion, tonic) or plain vodka can reduce burning sensation.

Rub alcohol on your hands and then hold them under running water. If hot pepper juice gets on other areas of the skin, soak a cotton pad with alcohol and treat them.

4. Vegetable oil

Hot pepper oils are perfectly neutralized by other, more pleasant ones. For example, olive or sunflower.

To relieve burning sensations, rub the skin with olive oil for a minute and then wash your hands well with warm water and soap.

If vegetable oil alone fails, add a pinch of sugar to it. You get something like a scrub.

It’s even better if you brush your hands with olive oil before you work with the pepper. The main thing is not to overdo it, otherwise the knife will slip out of your fingers.

5. Milk and dairy products

Dip your hands in cold milk, kefir or other dairy products for a few minutes. Add ice cubes to the bowl: this will relieve itching even faster and soothe the skin.

By adding flour to milk, you can make a healing mask and apply it on your hands and other affected areas. When the burning sensation subsides, wash off the mask with warm water.

If pepper gets in your eyes, wash them with milk and then apply cotton swabs soaked in it. If you accidentally peppered a dish and are now suffering from a burning sensation in your throat, use the tips from this article.

After any of the described procedures, the hands should be lubricated with a rich nourishing cream.

How to protect yourself in the future

Wear thin latex gloves when handling hot peppers. As a last resort, put transparent plastic bags on your hands and secure them with stationery rubber bands. It will be uncomfortable, but it’s better than jumping around the apartment in terrible pain.

You can try substituting a dangerous ingredient with a similar one if you want to avoid such complications and do not plan to recreate the dish from the recipe exactly.

About chili pepper: history, properties

HISTORY OF HOT PEPPER

The history of hot red pepper is more than 7,000 years old. Homeland – Latin America. Hot peppers have been found in ancient tombs in Peru. Smart conquistadors thought that CHILI is the name of the country where the CHILI pepper comes from. But, as is often the case, the conquistadors were wrong. Actually, the very name “chili” – in the language of the Indians meant “red”. The Indians did not have a written language, and the brave conquistadors diligently destroyed everyone who could be asked at least about something – priests, singers, healers, warriors, Indian nobility. Therefore, we cannot say anything for sure about the history of pepper in the pre-Columbian era. We know that it was consumed, deified, considered a fruit. The mention of hot pepper can be found even in Sanskrit. Marishi-phalam, as it was called, literally translates as the fruit of the Sun God.

Chili pepper had its own patron goddess – Causcholotl (Chantico), “She who lives in the house.” In the mythology of the Aztecs, the goddess of fire in the hearth and the fire of volcanoes, was also responsible for the ripening of corn cobs. True, the fate of this goddess was difficult. One day, she broke the ban on eating chili peppers while fasting and ate fried fish with paprika. The supreme god in the mythology of the Indians, Tonacatecuhtli, turned her into a dog. And so they lived.

The conquest of Latin America is a bloody and tragic page in European history. The conquistadors brutally dealt with the locals. The ideal roads and communications built by the Indians greatly helped the Europeans to quickly penetrate the mainland and destroy ancient civilizations. Of course, the locals zealously resisted, but what can a spear, even a super-sharp one, against a firearm? But one day the looters-invaders lost. Off the banks of the Orinoco River in 1532. According to eyewitnesses, instead of the usual already half-naked guys with bows and arrows, the conquistadors suddenly saw guys who were holding trays of embers in their hands. And they sprinkled some kind of powder on the coals. The wind blew towards the conquerors and an unknown chemical weapon did its job: the soldiers sobbed, sneezed, suffered, coughed, mixed battle ranks, and the Indians rushed to the attack and defeated them all. So Europeans got acquainted with red hot pepper. From the memoirs of one of them: “These islands are buried in thickets of bushes that look like roses, on which pods grow full of burning seeds; the Indians manage to eat these pods the same way we eat apples.”

By the way, the variety of hot peppers in Peru is amazing. The Peruvian market is a fire eater’s paradise. Fragrant, colorful, tasty and hot peppers of various colors are sold there in abundance, next to dried snakes, frogs and the healing bark of various trees.

Christopher Columbus was one of the first Europeans to encounter chili peppers and named them “peppers” because of their resemblance to black pepper. In the course of a massive Colombian exchange, he brought pepper seeds to Spain, and from there they were distributed by traders around the world. Since the 16th century, many cultures around the world have incorporated hot peppers into their native cuisine. Including India, Thailand, Hungary and some others.

By the way
Chili peppers were not always spicy and hot. It’s all about evolution. Capsaicin was necessary in order to protect against being eaten. And in general, all mammals except the monkey stopped eating peppers. But our ancestors liked it spicy. So it goes.

BY CONCEPT

CHILI PEPPER is the fruit of plants of the genus Capsicum from the nightshade family. These plants are distinguished by a natural pungent taste, which gives the natural alkaloid capsaicin.

There are 5 domesticated types of chile peppers:

Capsicum annuum is an annual capsicum. It is the most common type. they include bell peppers, wax, cayenne, jalapeno, and hiltepin.
Capsicum frutescens Bush pepper. Another common variety that includes Tabasco, Thai Pepper, Piri Piri, and African Bird’s Eye Chili. Some refer frutescens to Capsicum annuum.
Capsicum chinense – Chinese pepper. includes many of the hottest chilies such as Ghost Pepper (Naga Jolokia (Bhut Jolokia) , Habanero, Datil and Scotch Bonnet. Like Capsicum frutescens, some refer chinense to Capsicum annuum.
Capsicum pubescens – downy pepper. A rare species that is distinguished by hairy leaves and black seeds. The main example of this species is Rokoto pepper.
Capsicum baccatum – berry pepper. This species is mainly found in South America. Those peppers that are known in the world as “aji” or “ahi”, and are represented by the widest variety of exotic varieties with very fragrant and pungent fruits.

CAPSAICIN – is a colorless, odorless oily substance found in pepper fruits. When eaten, capsaicin interacts with vanilloid receptors in the mouth and throat and wherever it comes into contact. Interacting with capsaicin, neurons send a message to the brain that a person has been burned. The brain responds to the burning sensation by raising the heart rate, increasing sweating, blood circulation, and the release of endorphins.

By the way
Endorphins are responsible for feelings of happiness and other similar states. They belong to a group of polypeptide chemical compounds, similar in their mode of action to opiates (morphine-like compounds), which are naturally produced in brain neurons and have the ability to reduce pain, similar to opiates, and affect the emotional state. That is why some people are truly addicted to spicy foods.

The more capsaicin, the stronger the sensation of heat. At high concentrations, the sensation of burning and heat is so strong that even the most spicy eater will feel as if he is trampling around somewhere near the entrance to hell. But it’s all fake and deceitful. No burns, no fires. Please know that every time you get capsaicin concentrate in your mouth, on your skin, and even in your eyes, you feel like you’re on fire, but you’re not. And it is this quality of capsaicin – to mislead the brain – that makes it unique and so desirable.

By the way
Birds do not have vanilloid receptors, so they are not afraid of hot peppers.

SCOVILLE SCALE is a method for assessing the amount of capsaicin in chili peppers. It is named after Wilbur Scoville, who in 1912 was the first to change the spiciness of hot peppers. The original method was to gradually dilute the chili extract with milk. The extract was diluted until the pungency of the pepper was no longer noticeable to the test panel. This method has its drawbacks as it relies on the subjective analysis of testers who may have different levels of spiciness sensitivity.

Today, the Scoville scale is an exact value that is measured in the laboratory. Modern methods, in particular in liquid chromatography, make it possible to measure the exact amount of capsaicin.

By the way
The first criteria for assessing the hotness of chili peppers were invented by the Indians of South America. They distinguished 6 variants of hotness, for example, such as: volumetric hotness, hotness covering the entire body, point hotness.

HEALTH BENEFITS

Although many people still associate pepper only with a spicy taste, but real fire eaters know that chili pepper is great for many sores. Sometimes it seems that chili peppers are a panacea for all diseases. If suddenly something hurts – you need to either rub it with soda, or apply chili, and everything will work out.

In terms of the amount of vitamins and nutrients, pepper overtakes many vegetable fruits. For example, red peppers have a higher concentration of vitamin A than carrots. Green chilies contain twice as much vitamin C as citrus fruits. Orange chilies are a good source of leutin and zeaxanthin, which help reduce the risk of macular degeneration (the retina of our eyes). In addition to vitamins A and C, chilies contain vitamins E and B such as thiamin, niacin and riboflavin, flavinoids, potassium, iron and magnesium.

Nutritional value of 100 g chili pepper

40 calories
2 g – Proteins
8 g – Carbohydrates
0.2 g – Fats
1.5 g ‒ Dietary fiber
87.8 g – Water
5.1 g – Mono- and disaccharides
0.6 g – Ash

Chili pepper vitamins:

1 mg ‒ Vitamin PP
0. 67 mg ‒ Beta-carotene
59 mcg ‒ Vitamin A
0.09 mg ‒ Vitamin B1
0.09 mg ‒ Vitamin B2
0.28 mg ‒ Vitamin B6
23 mcg ‒ Vitamin B9
243 mg ‒ Vitamin C
0.7 mg ‒ Vitamin E
14.3 mcg – Vitamin K
11.1 mg – Choline

Macro- and micronutrients contained in chili peppers:

18 mg – Calcium
25 mg – Magnesium
7 mg – Sodium
340 mg – Potassium
46 mg – Phosphorus
1.2 mg – Iron
0.3 mg – Zinc
174 mcg – Copper
0. 24 mg – Manganese
0.5 mcg – Selenium

Native Americans in the pre-Columbian era used chili to ease childbirth, for colds and coughs, ear infections and sore throats. Spanish sailors have been eating at least two chili peppers every day since the 16th century to prevent scurvy and improve their eyesight. Chile also saves from seasickness. Railway workers in West Africa have always carried peppers because they considered them to be one of the most important means of promoting good health. It was believed that a high concentration of vitamin A saves from varicose veins and hemorrhoids, which were common among railway workers.

Today, chili peppers are used to prevent and treat many diseases. And not only shamans, but also in official medicine. Pharmacies sell pepper patches, ointments, creams.

Hot peppers are good for the stomach and digestive system by killing bacteria and stimulating the cells lining the stomach to secrete the protective juices needed to prevent ulcers.