Capsaicin, the Pungent Principle in Hot Pepper : From Basic Pharmacology to Therapeutic Applications

Capsaicin, the Pungent Principle in Hot Pepper: From Basic Pharmacology to Therapeutic Applications explores capsaicin's biological and pharmacological characteristics, from its discovery and isolation to its receptor identification and antagonists. The book's structure is divided into three sections, starting with the historical development of research on capsaicin. This foundational section provides a thorough understanding of the compound's journey from a simple pungent ingredient to a significant element in pharmacological studies. The second part of the book delves into capsaicin’s biological effects and pharmacology, covering areas such as nociception, pain, salivary secretion, body temperature regulation, and blood pressure regulation. Finally, the book examines the clinical applications of capsaicin, discussing potential future developments in desensitization, pain relief, injections, effects on the tumor microenvironment, appetite control, and longevity. This book is invaluable for pharmacology researchers and clinicians in pain management and cancer, offering insights into the unique characteristics and therapeutic potential of capsaicin.