Up Next
Back to Show
Reactions
Why Do Hot Peppers Cause Pain?
Season 2
Episode 55
Reactions is taking a look into spicy science. That's right--the chemistry of capsaicin and why hot peppers cause pain. You have probably had the burning sensation of eating a hot jalapeno or other tear-inducing pepper. What causes this painful fire in your mouth? The short answer is capsaicin. But what exactly is capsaicin? How does it work? Why do people drink milk and not water?
Sign up now for inspiring and thought-provoking media delivered straight to your inbox.
Support Provided By
15:58
Fluffy, delicious bread results when starch gelatinization and flour chemistry combine!
12:35
Join George (and, occasionally, Andrew) as they chart corn’s epic chemical journey.
10:46
We explore and learn anywhere between the 20 and 74,963 kinds of ice.
10:34
For years it was used in homicidal poisonings. We learn what made it so dangerous.
12:40
We explore brining and whether or not it makes a different when cooking the turkey.
15:23
We dive into the science to figure out how to make gummies without the side effects.
18:01
There are a few obstacles to overcome before we get there.
13:15
Come along on George’s epic journey into the wilds of salt science!
9:41
Weeds are building a defense against today's herbicides.
17:15
We explore how far carbon structures are from revolutionizing the world.
14:45
We dig into the science of flavor pairings, especially when it comes to the famous combo.
10:39
Can a medicine cause a war? The treatment for Malaria may just have.