RJV World

Not all pepper is hot. Like for example paprika, pimiento and bell pepper are not hot. However, pepper such as chili, palapeno and habanero are very hot. These pepper contains capsaicin, which stimulates the nerve endings in the mouth and makes the brain believe it is experiencing true heat. Eating hot pepper can also make the eyes water and the nose run and can induce perspiration. To counteract the pain, the brain releases morphine like endorphins that create a mild euphoria, similar to a runner high because of this pepper can be slightly addictive. Pure capsaicin is so hot that if you dilute a single drop in 100,000 drops of water and then sip the water, it will blister your tongue. Another interesting trait of capsaicin is that, unlike ginger or mustard, it can desensitize one to pain if small amount are eaten repeatedly or if a large amount is eaten all at once. This is why chili lovers can eat progressively hotter peppers and foods. When you burn your mouth by eating a hot pepper, the typical reaction is to drink water or milk. This won’t help at all. Capsaicin will dissolve in water and drinking a liquid only spread the capsaicin more until your whole mouth is burning. To alleviate burning, many people recommend sour cream or yogurt because the casein in these products breaks down the bond between the capsaicin and the pain receptors in your mouth. The most effective method found to relieve the burning sensation is to take a level of spoon of sugar, moisten it with some water and then roll it around in your mouth for half minute.