Capsaicin facts for kids
Capsaicin is a special chemical that makes chili peppers feel hot or spicy! It's what gives your mouth that burning sensation when you eat something like a jalapeño. This chemical is found in chili peppers and other plants. They probably make it to stop animals from eating them.
Pure capsaicin is a clear, odorless substance that looks like a crystal or wax. It doesn't mix with water.
Contents
What is Capsaicin Used For?
Capsaicin and similar chemicals (called capsaicinoids) are used in many ways.
In Food
The most common use for capsaicin is in food. It's added to make dishes taste hot or spicy. Think of your favorite spicy sauce or a fiery curry!
As a Painkiller
Even though capsaicin causes a burning feeling, it can also be used as a painkiller. These special painkillers are often put directly on the skin. The burning feeling from the capsaicin can help to mask or hide other types of pain.
In Pepper Spray
Capsaicin is also the main ingredient in pepper spray. This spray is used for self-defense. It causes a strong burning sensation in the eyes and on the skin.
How to Cool the Burn
If you've eaten something too hot with capsaicin, water won't help much. Capsaicin doesn't dissolve in water. It likes to stick to oil and fat.
To cool down the burning feeling:
- Drink milk or eat yoghurt. The fat in these dairy products helps to wash away the capsaicin.
- Eat something oily or fatty.
- If capsaicin gets on your skin, you can use soap to wash it off. Soap helps to break down oils and fats.
More Pictures
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Curry dishes often contain capsaicin
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Chili peppers, like these Bhut Jolokia, are known for their capsaicin content
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Vanillamine is a building block for capsaicin
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Another building block for capsaicin
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How capsaicin is made in plants
See also
In Spanish: Capsaicina para niños
