CAPSICIN Meaning and
Definition
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Capsaicin is a natural chemical compound that is derived from plants, specifically from the fruit of plants in the Capsicum family, which includes chili peppers. It is responsible for the sensation of spiciness or heat often experienced when consuming spicy foods or when coming into contact with certain topical medications or ointments.
Capsaicin is a pungent, colorless, and odorless crystalline substance that belongs to a class of compounds called capsaicinoids. It is primarily found in the seeds and white membrane of chili peppers, where it acts as a defense mechanism against herbivorous animals.
When capsaicin comes into contact with mucous membranes or skin, it triggers a response in the body's cells, specifically activating a receptor called the vanilloid receptor subtype 1 (VR1). This receptor is primarily found in sensory nerve fibers, which transmit signals of pain and heat to the brain.
The activation of the VR1 receptor by capsaicin leads to a variety of physiological responses. These can include increased circulation, a release of endorphins (natural pain relievers), sweating, and a burning sensation. As a result, capsaicin has been widely used in pain relief creams and ointments to alleviate symptoms associated with muscle soreness, arthritis, and nerve pain.
Additionally, due to its unique properties, capsaicin has been studied for its potential health benefits, including its ability to aid digestion, boost metabolism, and act as a natural anti-inflammatory agent.
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A yellowish-red oleoresin containing the active principle of capsicum.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for CAPSICIN
- xapsicin
- vapsicin
- fapsicin
- dapsicin
- czpsicin
- cspsicin
- cwpsicin
- cqpsicin
- caosicin
- calsicin
- ca-sicin
- ca0sicin
- capzicin
- capxicin
- capdicin
- capeicin
- capwicin
- capsucin
- capsjcin
Etymology of CAPSICIN
The word "capsaicin" is derived from the genus name of the plant family it originates from, Capsicum, and the suffix "-acin" which denotes a chemical compound. Capsicum is a genus of plants that includes chili peppers, bell peppers, and other related species. The term "capsaicin" was coined in 1876 by German chemist Karl Micko and was derived from the scientific name of chili peppers, Capsicum annuum.
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