Biological Properties, Bioactive Constituents, and Pharmacokinetics of Some <i>Capsicum</i> spp. and Capsaicinoids

• Main Authors: Gaber El-Saber Batiha, Ali Alqahtani, Oluwafemi Adeleke Ojo, Hazem M. Shaheen, Lamiaa Wasef, Mahmoud Elzeiny, Mahmoud Ismail, Mahmoud Shalaby, Toshihiro Murata, Adrian Zaragoza-Bastida, Nallely Rivero-Perez, Amany Magdy Beshbishy, Keneth Iceland Kasozi, Philippe Jeandet, Helal F. Hetta
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Published: MDPI AG 2020-07-01
• Series: International Journal of Molecular Sciences
• Subjects: bioactive constituents; <i>Capsicum</i> spp.; pharmacokinetics
• Online Access: https://www.mdpi.com/1422-0067/21/15/5179
• ISSN: 1661-6596; 1422-0067

Pepper originated from the <i>Capsicum</i> genus, which is recognized as one of the most predominant and globally distributed genera of the Solanaceae family. It is a diverse genus, consisting of more than 31 different species including five domesticated species, <i>Capsicum baccatum</i>, <i>C. annuum</i>, <i>C. pubescen</i>, <i>C. frutescens</i>, and <i>C. chinense.</i> Pepper is the most widely used spice in the world and is highly valued due to its pungency and unique flavor. Pepper is a good source of provitamin A; vitamins E and C; carotenoids; and phenolic compounds such as capsaicinoids, luteolin, and quercetin. All of these compounds are associated with their antioxidant as well as other biological activities. Interestingly, <i>Capsicum</i> fruits have been used as food additives in the treatment of toothache, parasitic infections, coughs, wound healing, sore throat, and rheumatism. Moreover, it possesses antimicrobial, antiseptic, anticancer, counterirritant, appetite stimulator, antioxidant, and immunomodulator activities. Capsaicin and <i>Capsicum</i> creams are accessible in numerous ways and have been utilized in HIV-linked neuropathy and intractable pain.