CAPSAICIN, [CAS 404-86-4] is 8-methyl-N-vanillyl-6-nonenamide and is processed from chilli peppers being plants of the genus Capsicum and it should not be confused with the synthetic form of the product, sometimes offered in the market.
Capsaicin is the main capsaicinoid found in chilli peppers and has a Scoville Heat Unit activity of around 16 million. Medically, capsaicin has its main usage in topical ointments for the relief of pain in peripheral neuropathy, essentially in post herpetic neuralgia due to shingles. In the form of cream, it is also widely used to relieve arthritically associated muscular and joint pain, sprains and certain forms of backache.
Capsaicin research is being explored in a variety of centres with some interesting results relating to its ability to initiate apoptosis in lung cancer cells; as a possible prophylaxis for type I diabetes and its potential to destroy prostate cancer cells via apoptosis.
Capsaicin is frequently added to food stuffs to create a pungent or spicey value. It has also found an important application in the manufacture of pepper sprays.
In 1984, Andard-Mount became involved in the development of Capsaicin through its association with a major producer of alkaloids and when the bulk active principle was brought to market shortly thereafter. we became well placed to assist in the global commercial development of this material, a position we maintain.
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