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capsaicin

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cap·sa·i·cin  (kp-s-sn)
n.
A colorless, pungent, crystalline compound, C18H27NO3, that is derived from capsicum and is a strong irritant to skin and mucous membranes.

[Alteration (perhaps influenced by Latin capsa, box) of earlier capsicin : capsic(um) + -in.]

capsaicin [kæpˈseɪɪsɪn]
n
(Life Sciences & Allied Applications / Biochemistry) a colourless crystalline bitter alkaloid found in capsicums and used as a flavouring in vinegar and pickles. Formula: C18H27O3N
[C19 capsicine, from capsicum + -ine2; modern form refashioned from Latin capsa box, case + -in]

capsaicin  (kp-s-sn)
A colorless, extremely pungent, crystalline compound that is the primary active principle producing the heat of red peppers. It is a strong irritant to skin and mucous membranes and is used in medicine as a topical analgesic. Capsaicin is highly stable, retaining its potency for long periods and despite cooking or freezing. Chemical formula: C18H27NO3.
ThesaurusLegend:  Synonyms Related Words Antonyms
Noun1.capsaicin - colorless pungent crystalline compound derived from capsicum; source of the hotness of hot peppers of the genus Capsicum such as chili and cayenne and jalapeno
capsicum, capsicum pepper plant, pepper - any of various tropical plants of the genus Capsicum bearing peppers
chemical irritant - a substance producing irritation


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1 Contrary to popular opinion, it is not the seeds that are the hottest part of a chilli, but the white pith that surrounds them and runs in thick veins through the pod 2 Drinking milk or placing a spoonful of yoghurt in your mouth is the best way to relieve the burning sensation of chilli, as water will just spread the capsaicin oil around 3 It is said chillies can help fight off winter colds and eating them releases endorphins that helps lift the spirits.
Capsaicin is commonly used as a painkiller to help manage arthritis, diabetic neuropathy, shingles, postmastectomy pain and headaches as it depletes the level of pain-perception molecules in the bloodstream.
Capsaicin is commonly used as a painkiller to help manage arthritis, diabetic neuropathy, shingles, postmastectomy pain and headaches - and is even sold as an over-thecounter cream - as capsaicin depletes the level of pain perception molecules in the bloodstream.
 
 
 
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