Mizo chilli (Capsicum frutescens): A potential source of capsaicin with broad-spectrum ethno pharmacological applications

Abstract

Capsaicinoids are the compounds responsible for the pungency of chilli and their products. Capsaicin is also considered as an active principle which accounts for the pharmaceutical properties of peppers. It has been used as an analgesic against arthritis pain and inflammation. It has also been reported to show anticancer effect and to be active against neurogenic inflammation. For this reason, capsaicin content of three varieties of Mizoram Bird’s Eye chilli (MZBEC) (Capsicum frutescens) was determined by spectrophotometry. The results shown that Grade- A variety possesses the highest content in capsaicin (607.9mg/100g of dry weight followed by Grade-B and Grade C). The 'Mizo chilli' a chilli variety indigenous to Mizoram in the northeast region of India has been used conventionally in treating various ailments since time immemorial by the indigenous people. The present paper reviews that rich amount of capsaicin are present in Mizo chilli which has high ethnopharmacological value.