Capsaicin, also known as Capsaicin, is an organic compound that belongs to the vanillylamide group of alkaloids. The following is a detailed introduction to capsaicin:
1. Basic Information
English name: Capsaicin
Alias: Capsaicin
Chemical formula: C18H27NO3
Molecular weight: 305.42
CAS No.: 404-86-4
EINECS No.: 206-969-8
Physical Properties
2. Appearance: White crystalline powder
Melting point: 62~65°C (literature values may vary slightly)
Boiling point: 511.5°C at 760mmHg
Flash point: variously stated as 113°C, 237.9°C
Water solubility: insoluble
Density: approximately 1.0g/cm³ or 1.041g/cm³
Maximum UV absorption: at 227nm, 281nm
3. Existence and extraction
Capsaicin is mainly found in Capsicum annuum and its varieties in nature, and it is an active ingredient extracted from chilli fruits. Extraction methods mainly include natural extraction, chemical synthesis and biochemical methods. Among them, the natural extraction method is by crushing the fresh red dried chillies and extracting them with organic solvents, and then through a series of treatments to obtain capsaicin.
4. Uses
Pain Relief: Capsaicin can be used to treat pain caused by arthritis and neuralgia, such as osteoarthritis and post-herpetic neuralgia. By stimulating the skin to produce heat, so as to reduce the pain.
Treatment of skin diseases: it is effective in treating skin diseases such as psoriasis and frostbite. It promotes skin metabolism and reduces inflammatory reactions.
Aids weight loss: Capsaicin boosts metabolism and increases energy expenditure, thus helping to control weight.
Promote blood circulation: Capsaicin can improve local blood circulation, which has an auxiliary effect on some diseases with poor blood circulation.
Anti-inflammatory: Capsaicin also has the effect of reducing inflammatory reactions, which is suitable for the treatment of some inflammatory diseases.