2024 Author: Jasmine Walkman | [email protected]. Last modified: 2023-12-16 08:29
Capsaicin (Capsaicin, 8-methyl-N-vanillyl-6-nonenamide) is an ingredient found in hot peppers, a crop of the Solanaceae family. The hot peppers in question come from North and South America. In its pure state, capsaicin looks like a crystalline powder. It does not have a special smell, but it has a pungent sensation that it leaves in the mouth. It is formed by seven linked alkaloids.
The compound melts at a temperature of 65 degrees Celsius. Capsaicin is slightly soluble in water. But it is affected by alcohols, chloroform and others. Therefore, when consuming too spicy a food containing capsaicin, a person may consume alcohol to reduce its effects. Capsaicin can be obtained in large quantities from hot peppers by extraction with acetone. The resulting extract is orange or red in color. The capsaicin content it is five to ten percent.
History of capsaicin
As it has already become clear, the hot feeling we get when we eat red hot pepper is due to the compound capsaicin. It was discovered in the first quarter of the nineteenth century by P. Buchholz, but received its name decades later. His godfather is L. Thrash. In the second half of the nineteenth century, the Hungarian physician E. Hodges noticed that the alkaloid in question was to blame not only for the strong burning in the oral cavity, but also for the secretion of gastric juice, which had a good effect on digestion. In the last century, the substance was obtained synthetically.
Benefits of capsaicin
Assimilated through hot peppers, capsaicin helps for regulates the acids in the stomach and has a beneficial effect on digestive processes. Capsaicin helps to speed up the processes in the body and for this reason it is included in the diet of active athletes. It is also accepted with great success by people who are trying to lose weight. However, the positive benefits of the valuable ingredient of hot peppers do not end there.
A recent study by researchers at the University of Nottingham suggests that capsaicin may be a key factor in fighting cancer. According to research, it has the ability to destroy cancer cells. At the same time it does not adversely affect the body. The theory is confirmed by scientific experiments conducted with the participation of laboratory mice. Statistics from the World Health Organization show that in countries where more of the compound is ingested through hot peppers, the percentage of people who die from cancer is lower than in others.
Capsaicin is a substance that has been the subject of numerous studies over the years. Over time, experts have discovered that it can be used in various fields and for various purposes. Capsaicin is a potent drug that has the ability to reduce pain. The valuable ingredient contained in hot peppers is a significant component for many ointments, creams, gels that we use because of their warming and anti-inflammatory action. The substance can be used in therapies for heart and vascular problems. It also prevents clotting and clogging of the arteries.
The ingredient is also used in creams to reduce the pain of people suffering from arthritis. It is also part of preparations for psoriasis and those that fight migraines. The compound helps prevent diarrhea caused by a bacterial infection. Capsaicin has a good effect on blood circulation in the body. There is evidence that it acts as an aphrodisiac. Its indispensable quality is the ability to affect nerve receptors, causing painful sensations.
Among other things, the intake of this substance is beneficial for the lungs, as it strengthens their tissue. On the other hand, a stranger helps to release unwanted secretions faster and easier. The compound energizes and improves physical activity, which is why it is preferred by athletes. It can also have a positive effect on people who strive to lose weight and sculpt the figure, as it speeds up metabolism, reduces appetite and prevents the formation of fat cells. In this way, the extra pounds manage to disappear easily and naturally.
Apart from being a pharmaceutical, it is also used for other purposes. Capsaicin applications can also be found at home. For example, it can be used as an insecticide. It has been shown to work well in the fight against pests such as insects and rats. The substance is added to the paint or varnish with which the surface will be subsequently treated. Some housewives also use it as an aid to teach their pets to sharpen their nails in a place.
Here's more about the benefits and uses of capsaicin.
1. Against oxidative stress
As a potent analgesic and antioxidant compound, capsaicin can help reduce oxidative stress in various parts of the body by neutralizing free radicals.
2. Skin problems
When you apply this substance to your skin, it will help relieve pain and inflammation, although it may cause initial irritation or discomfort.
3. Diabetes
Studies have shown that capsaicin is able to reduce the amount of pain from diabetic neuropathy.
4. Weight loss
By improving your metabolism and helping to detoxify your body, this substance can help your entire system function better and make your workouts more effective.
5. Digestion
The effects of capsaicin can help regulate the digestive system and eliminate waste more effectively, thus reducing the symptoms of diarrhea and constipation.
6. Headache
Applying this substance to the temples, in the form of an ointment, can help relieve pressure from the head and relieve migraine symptoms.
Capsaicin intake
Capsaicin can be taken orally in the form of tablets, which are available in pharmacies. It is possible to feel burning when swallowing them, but there is nothing strange in them. This feeling can be observed within a month. However, with prolonged use of the substance, it will disappear. Eating twenty minutes after taking capsaicin may reduce the burning sensation. However, for people with a sensitive stomach, it is advisable to consult a doctor before using the product.
More benefits of eating hot peppers
As you already know, hot peppers contain capsaicinwhich can be very beneficial to health. What are the other properties of hot peppers? According to the US Department of Agriculture, 100 grams of hot peppers means 36 milligrams of calcium, 1.3 milligrams of iron, 4 milligrams of magnesium, 113 milligrams of potassium and 397 milligrams of sodium. In addition, the same amount of hot peppers includes a rich complex of vitamins: 34 milligrams of vitamin C, 0.12 milligrams of vitamin B6, 0.05 milligrams of folate (known as the natural form of vitamin B9), plus niacin, thiamine and riboflavin, active ingredients with antioxidant role.
There are several ways you can consume and use hot peppers so that you can make the most of their nutritional value and the benefits it has on our body.
Hot peppers can be eaten raw (however, you must have a high tolerance for spicy foods), in various salads with peppers, pepper pots, sauces (guacamole) or as a side dish to meat,potatoes or pizza with meat for example.
There is also tea with hot pepper - a good remedy for heart function, which stimulates blood circulation and speeds up metabolism. There are also nutritional supplements based on hot peppers - capsules that help control weight and support the immune system. Their big advantage is that they can be accepted even by those who are not fans of spicy taste.
Last but not least, for internal use can be indicated tincture of hot pepper, which is applied after it has been pre-diluted in water (usually the ratio is 10-15 drops of tincture per 100 milliliters of water). Once tested, this solution aids digestion, accelerates calorie burning, stimulates thermogenesis and regulates blood circulation in the body.
Harms of capsaicin
Capsaicin is a substance with great care. When it gets into the nose and eyes, it causes a painful sensation / burning /, tears, and sometimes loss of speech, dizziness. In case it gets into the nose and eyes, you will feel a burning sensation, which will pass in about an hour. To relieve the discomfort, you can smear the affected area with some vegetable oil or honey.
If the problem persists, seek medical attention. Occasionally, although rarely, breathing problems, eye problems, dermatitis and nosebleeds are seen on contact. The substance is not recommended for pregnant women, nursing mothers and people who are sensitive to it. Capsaicin should also not be used by people suffering from ulcers. Before resorting to the use of the substance, be sure to consult a medical professional.
Frequent side effects of capsaicin use in any form are:
- irritation;
- swelling;
- redness;
- increased photosensitivity;
- severe allergic reactions, such as difficulty breathing and hives;
- cardiac arrhythmias in rare cases;
- high blood pressure.
