Preparation, pungency, and bioactivity of capsaicin: a review

Summary Capsaicin is the main pungent compound in red pepper responsible for its dual attributes of culinary utility and bioactive efficacy. This review aims to systematically review the preparation methods, pungency, and bioactivities of capsaicin. Capsaicin can be extracted by maceration, microwave, near‐infrared extraction, supercritical fluid, and ultrasound‐assisted extraction methods. Also, it can be synthesised through chemical, biosynthetic, and in vitro cell methods. Capsaicin can elicit a pungent sensation via activation of TRPV1 receptor. Furthermore, it has been reported to display various bioactivities, such as hypoglycaemic, hypolipidemic, analgesic, anti‐cancer, anti‐inflammatory, and intestinal health‐protecting activities via several signalling pathways. Overall, this review can provide a theoretical reference for understanding the preparation, pungent sensation, and bioactivities of capsaicin.