Not surprisingly, capsaicin can be found in the fruit of capsicums. Capsicum is the genus of plants producing the fruits we call ‘peppers’. The term Capsicum is derived from the Greek κάπτω (kapto), meaning “to gulp.” This morphed into Latin capsa, meaning ‘case’, referring to the fact that peppers hold seeds.

Chili peppers are used to make countless spice blends and seasonings, all around the world. From the fiery cayenne powder to kick up the heat to the sweet paprika for homemade stew.