A capsaicinoid is a chemical compound found in chili peppers. Capsaicin is the major compound with many other minor compounds such as Homodihydrocapsaicin combining to give pungency or spiciness to chili peppers. Homodihydrocapsaicin only accounts for a small one percent of the capsaicinoids. It has a very minimal amount of pungency or spicy heat. This particular chemical compound has no odor and is colorless with a consistency that is somewhat crystalline to waxy. It causes a type of prolonged burn that is numbing to the throat and very difficult to rinse away. On the Scoville scale, this capsaicinoid has 8,600,000 SHU or Scoville Heat Units.
Hot Effect of Capsaicinoids
The capsaicinoids, like homodihydrocapsaicin, have very irritating effects on humans, animals, and insects. Humans experience a burning sensation to the skin, eyes, tongue, and throat. Animals appear to feel the effects when capsaicinoid containing repellents are sprayed into their faces. Studies show that homodihydrocapsaicin and other capsaicinoids appear to deteriorate the central nervous system of insects. Based on these studies, many companies are manufacturing repellents with capsaicinoids. Capsaicinoids are also appearing on the shelves of many pharmacies. They are in the form of topical analgesics for muscle aches and pains.
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