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Biological Activities of Red Pepper (Capsicum annuum) and Its Pungent Principle Capsaicin: A Review

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Relation http://ir.cftri.com/12243/
http://dx.doi.org/10.1080/10408398.2013.772090
 
Title Biological Activities of Red Pepper
(Capsicum annuum) and Its Pungent
Principle Capsaicin: A Review
 
Creator Srinivasan, K.
 
Subject 30 Spices/Condiments
 
Description Capsaicin, the pungent alkaloid of red pepper (Capsicum annuum) has been extensively studied for its biological effects
which are of pharmacological relevance. These include: cardio protective influence, antilithogenic effect,
antiinflammatory, and analgesia, thermogenic influence, and beneficial effects on gastrointestinal system. Therefore,
capsaicinoids may have the potential clinical value for pain relief, cancer prevention and weight loss. It has been shown
that capsaicinoids are potential agonists of capsaicin receptor (TRPV1). They could exert the effects not only through the
receptor-dependent pathway but also through the receptor-independent one. The involvement of neuropeptide Substance
P, serotonin, and somatostatin in the pharmacological actions of capsaicin has been extensively investigated. Topical
application of capsaicin is proved to alleviate pain in arthritis, postoperative neuralgia, diabetic neuropathy, psoriasis,
etc. Toxicological studies on capsaicin administered by different routes are documented. Capsaicin inhibits acid secretion,
stimulates alkali and mucus secretion and particularly gastric mucosal blood flow which helps in prevention and healing
of gastric ulcers. Antioxidant and antiinflammatory properties of capsaicin are established in a number of studies.
Chemopreventive potential of capsaicin is evidenced in cell line studies. The health beneficial hypocholesterolemic
influence of capsaicin besides being cardio protective has other implications, viz., prevention of cholesterol gallstones and
protection of the structural integrity of erythrocytes under conditions of hypercholesterolemia. Beneficial influences of
capsaicin on gastrointestinal system include digestive stimulant action and modulation of intestinal ultrastructure so as to
enhance permeability to micronutrients.
 
Date 2016
 
Type Article
PeerReviewed
 
Format application/pdf
 
Language en
 
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Identifier http://ir.cftri.com/12243/1/Critical%20Reviews%20in%20Food%20Science%20and%20Nutrition%2056%201488%E2%80%931500%20%282016%29.pdf
Srinivasan, K. (2016) Biological Activities of Red Pepper (Capsicum annuum) and Its Pungent Principle Capsaicin: A Review. Critical Reviews in Food Science and Nutrition, 56. pp. 1488-1500.