Why does "hot" salsa give you a burning sensation?

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GothicPandax

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I just got done eating some chips and salsa... well, I couldn't take the burn anymore and after chugging water and sugar I started wondering about the science of salsa, what in it makes your mouth feel like you're breathing fire? And why do we love it so much?

Also, apparently when you drink water it does little to soothe the burning but when you drink milk it helps greatly. Even a pinch of sugar on your tongue stops the flames. Why is that?
 
im not sure... maybe its just a reaction our tastes buds have to extreme flavor...? and maybe because water doesnt have any substances other than...water...
 
The burning sensation is caused by capsaicin, a chemical in chili and other spicy stuff that is a strong irritant to skin and mucous membranes.

If I'm not mistaken, I remember that the chemicals in milk interacts with the capsaicin to neutralize it. I think sugar should do the same as well.
 
"spicy" or "hot" foods contain capcacin, an oil that gives your tongue a burning sensation. Probably a natural insecticide, but triggers pain and endorphins in you and me
 
im not sure... maybe its just a reaction our tastes buds have to extreme flavor...? and maybe because water doesnt have any substances other than...water...
 
im not sure... maybe its just a reaction our tastes buds have to extreme flavor...? and maybe because water doesnt have any substances other than...water...
 
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