Have you ever taken a bite of food seasoned with black pepper and felt a sudden burning sensation in your mouth?
You’re not alone.
Black pepper is a common spice used in many cuisines around the world, but its pungent taste can leave some people wondering why it causes such discomfort.
The answer lies in a specific phytochemical called piperine, which interacts with the temperature regulating receptors in your mouth.
But why does this happen, and how does it compare to the burning sensation caused by other spicy foods?
In this article, we’ll explore the science behind why black pepper burns your mouth and what you can do to minimize the discomfort.
So sit back, grab a glass of water, and let’s dive in!
Why Does Black Pepper Burn My Mouth?
As mentioned earlier, black pepper contains a phytochemical called piperine. This compound is responsible for the hotness of black pepper and is similar to the capsaicin found in chili peppers.
When you consume black pepper, the piperine interacts with the temperature regulating receptors in your mouth. This interaction causes a burning sensation that can be quite uncomfortable for some people.
Interestingly, this burning sensation is not caused by a chemical reaction like the one that occurs with capsaicin. Instead, it’s a neurological reaction that happens when the piperine binds to the pain receptors in your mouth.
These pain receptors are located at nerve endings that also detect heat. When the piperine binds to these receptors, it tricks your neurons into firing a signal that makes you feel like your mouth is burning.
What Is Black Pepper And How Does It Work In The Body?
Black pepper is a spice that is commonly used in cooking to add flavor and heat to dishes. It comes from the Piper nigrum plant, which is native to India and other parts of Asia.
The active compound in black pepper is piperine, which gives it its characteristic hotness. Piperine has been shown to have several effects on the body, including reducing pain, improving breathing, and reducing inflammation.
When consumed in moderation, black pepper is generally considered safe. However, consuming large amounts of black pepper can have potential side effects on the body. For example, studies have shown that black pepper can increase how much theophylline the body absorbs, which can cause increased side effects of theophylline.
Additionally, consuming high amounts of black pepper can cause gastric mucosal injury and trigger intestinal irritation. This can lead to epigastric pain and dyspepsia, which are common symptoms for many people.
Despite these potential side effects, black pepper also has some positive therapeutic properties. For instance, it possesses antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, antirheumatic, lipid-lowering qualities and is protective of the liver, kidney and gut. It also has anticancer activities and contains the phytonutrient piperine, which can control free radicals with its antioxidant effects.
The Science Behind The Burning Sensation Of Black Pepper
To understand why black pepper burns your mouth, it’s important to look at the science behind it. As mentioned earlier, black pepper contains piperine, which is responsible for the hotness of black pepper. Piperine interacts with the temperature regulating receptors in your mouth, causing a burning sensation.
This burning sensation is a neurological reaction that happens when the piperine binds to the pain receptors in your mouth. These pain receptors are located at nerve endings that also detect heat. When the piperine binds to these receptors, it tricks your neurons into firing a signal that makes you feel like your mouth is burning.
Unlike capsaicin, which causes a chemical reaction that results in a burning sensation, the burning sensation from black pepper is purely a neurological reaction. This is why some people may experience a burning sensation from black pepper even though it’s considered mild in terms of spiciness.
It’s also worth noting that everyone has a different tolerance for spicy foods, including black pepper. Some people may find that they can handle higher levels of spiciness than others, while others may find even mild levels of spiciness uncomfortable.
How Does Black Pepper Compare To Other Spicy Foods?
When it comes to spiciness, black pepper is often debated. Some people believe that it is only slightly spicy, while others find it quite hot. In comparison to other spicy foods, black pepper falls on the milder end of the spectrum. For example, jalapenos are widely known for their spiciness and can have varying levels of heat depending on how they are prepared. Peppercorns, on the other hand, are a great way to add a hint of spice to a dish without overpowering the other flavors. Gochujang, a Korean chili paste made from soybeans, has a slightly sweet taste but can still pack a spicy punch. Szechuan peppercorns deliver a tingly/numbing sensation and are often used in Chinese cuisine.
While black pepper may not be the spiciest food out there, its heat is still caused by a compound that interacts with the pain receptors in your mouth. This unique neurological reaction sets black pepper apart from other spicy foods that rely on chemical reactions to create their heat. Overall, black pepper can add a nice level of spice to a dish without being too overwhelming, making it a popular choice in many cuisines around the world.
Why Do Some People Experience More Discomfort From Black Pepper?
While black pepper is generally considered safe for consumption, some people may experience more discomfort than others. This is because everyone’s taste buds and pain receptors are different.
For example, some people may have a higher sensitivity to the heat and pain receptors in their mouth, making them more susceptible to the burning sensation caused by piperine. Additionally, people who have a history of acid reflux or other digestive issues may be more likely to experience discomfort from black pepper.
Furthermore, the amount of black pepper consumed can also play a role in the level of discomfort experienced. Consuming excessive amounts of black pepper can irritate the lining of the stomach and trigger symptoms such as heartburn or indigestion.
It’s important to note that while black pepper can cause discomfort for some individuals, it is generally considered safe for consumption in moderation. If you experience severe discomfort or any other adverse reactions after consuming black pepper, it’s best to consult with a healthcare professional.
Tips For Minimizing The Burning Sensation Of Black Pepper.
If you enjoy the taste of black pepper but find it too spicy, there are some tips you can follow to minimize the burning sensation in your mouth. Here are some effective ways to do so:
1. Use less black pepper: This may seem obvious, but using less black pepper can significantly reduce the burning sensation in your mouth. Start by using a small amount and gradually increase it until you find a tolerable level.
2. Pair black pepper with other flavors: You can pair black pepper with other flavors that can help balance out the spiciness. For example, adding some lemon juice or honey to your dish can help mitigate the burning sensation.
3. Drink milk or eat dairy products: Milk and other dairy products contain a protein called casein that helps neutralize the heat from black pepper. Drinking milk or eating yogurt or cheese after consuming black pepper can help soothe your mouth.
4. Eat starchy foods: Starchy foods like bread, rice, or potatoes can help absorb the piperine in black pepper and reduce the burning sensation in your mouth.
5. Avoid drinking water: Drinking water may seem like a good idea to cool down your mouth, but it can actually make the burning sensation worse. Water doesn’t dissolve piperine, so it just spreads it around your mouth and makes it more intense. Instead, try drinking milk or eating starchy foods as mentioned above.
By following these tips, you can still enjoy the flavor of black pepper without experiencing too much discomfort from its spiciness. It’s important to note that everyone’s tolerance for spiciness is different, so experiment with different amounts and pairings until you find what works best for you.
