While eating my delicious pizza I wondered what makes the chili peppers so hot. And the answer is quite interesting.

Chili peppers contain an alcaloid which is named capsaicin. This compound belongs to the capsaicinoids and is also the primary ingredient in pepper spray. When it comes in contact with mucous membranes, it gives you a burning sensation. Interestingly, it does not bind to taste receptors but to pain receptors in the mouth and throat.

And why is water not effective to clear this burning sensation? Capsaicin is not soluble in water.