<P> Capsaicin ( / kæpˈseɪ. ɪsɪn / ( INN ) ; 8 - methyl - N - vanillyl - 6 - nonenamide ) is an active component of chili peppers , which are plants belonging to the genus Capsicum . It is an irritant for mammals , including humans , and produces a sensation of burning in any tissue with which it comes into contact . Capsaicin and several related compounds are called capsaicinoids and are produced as secondary metabolites by chili peppers , probably as deterrents against certain mammals and fungi . Pure capsaicin is a hydrophobic , colorless , highly pungent , crystalline to waxy compound . </P>
<P> Capsaicin ( / kæpˈseɪ. ɪsɪn / ( INN ) ; 8 - methyl - N - vanillyl - 6 - nonenamide ) is an active component of chili peppers , which are plants belonging to the genus Capsicum . It is an irritant for mammals , including humans , and produces a sensation of burning in any tissue with which it comes into contact . Capsaicin and several related compounds are called capsaicinoids and are produced as secondary metabolites by chili peppers , probably as deterrents against certain mammals and fungi . Pure capsaicin is a hydrophobic , colorless , highly pungent , crystalline to waxy compound . </P>
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Capsaicin
Capsaicin