Naked Science Forum

Non Life Sciences => Chemistry => Topic started by: Jabu Ndlovu on 16/09/2011 11:30:04

Title: What makes chillies hot?
Post by: Jabu Ndlovu on 16/09/2011 11:30:04

Jabu Ndlovu  asked the Naked Scientists:
   
Dear Chris,

Can you please help explain the phenomenon behind the chillies/peri peri.  

What is the chemical composition of this plant for it to burn the way it does.  ( I love it by the way, gives great taste to food) Is there any evidence of it being used in war or to make explosives?

Please advise,

Regards,

Jabu

What do you think?

Title: Re: What makes chillies hot?
Post by: explosci on 01/04/2012 00:52:40

The compound is capsaicin http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Capsaicin

It is used in pepper spray for self-defense uses.

Useless for explosives

Title: Re: What makes chillies hot?
Post by: curiousmind on 01/04/2012 15:59:34

Apparently, chillies are not actually "hot".. but it is our brain which makes our body think it is hot, due to a fast response to the Capsaicin present in the chillies!

Title: Re: What makes chillies hot?
Post by: Sprool on 02/04/2012 12:10:53

does too much chilli damage our tonges taste cells?