How to Stop the Burn from Hot Peppers
If you enjoy spicy chili peppers, you’ve probably experienced the burning sensation they can cause on your taste buds, around your mouth, and even on your skin. This burning sensation is caused by a chemical called capsaicin. Capsaicin is an oil-like compound found in the white membranes surrounding the seeds of hot peppers. It’s what gives peppers their heat.
Understanding Hot Pepper Burn
Capsaicin is an alkaline oil that spreads easily. When it comes into contact with your skin or mucous membranes, it binds to receptors that send pain signals to your brain. This is what causes the burning sensation.
Relieving Hot Pepper Burn
The key to relieving hot pepper burn is to neutralize or break up the capsaicin oil. Here are some effective methods:
Household Remedies for Hot Pepper Burn on Skin
- Alcohol: Rubbing or isopropyl alcohol is a solvent that can break down oils. Apply it liberally to the affected area, then wash with soap and water. Avoid soaking in alcohol, as it can be absorbed into the body.
- Degreasing Cleaners: Dish soap and degreasing hand cleaners are designed to remove oils and grease. They can be effective at dissolving capsaicin oil.
- Corn Starch or Baking Soda: These pantry staples can neutralize capsaicin oil. Make a thick paste with a small amount of water and apply it to the affected area. Let it dry, then wash it off with soap and water.
- Vinegar: The acetic acid in vinegar can neutralize the alkalinity of capsaicin. Pour it over the affected area or soak it in a mixture of vinegar and water for 15 minutes.
- Vegetable Oil: Cooking oils can dilute capsaicin, making it less potent. Rub it generously on the skin, then wash it off with dish soap or hand cleaner.
- Dairy Products: Dairy products contain casein, a fat-binding protein that can dissolve capsaicin oil. Use fatty dairy products like whole milk, yogurt, or sour cream to soothe mouth burn or soak your hands in them.
Relieving Hot Pepper Burn in Eyes
- Blink Rapidly: Blinking helps flush out the burning oil.
- Remove Contact Lenses: If you wear contacts, remove them immediately to prevent the oil from getting trapped.
- Use Saline Solution: Flush your eyes with a sterile saline solution to remove any remaining oil.
Preventing Hot Pepper Burn
- Wear Gloves: Gardeners and home cooks should wear gloves when handling chili peppers. Replace gloves if they become punctured.
- Wash Hands: Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water after handling chili peppers, especially before touching your face or using the bathroom.
Tips for Different Types of Hot Pepper Burn
- Mouth Burn: Gargle with milk or eat dairy products to neutralize the capsaicin.
- Skin Burn: Apply cold compresses or soak the affected area in cool water.
- Eye Burn: Flush your eyes with copious amounts of water or a saline solution. Seek medical attention if the burn is severe.
Remember, preventing hot pepper burn is always better than treating it. By following these tips, you can enjoy the heat of chili peppers without the discomfort of burning sensations.