| Extraction and characterization of capsaicin: an anesthetic and analgesic active compound from Saharan chili pepper, a natural alternative for pain management |
| Paper ID : 1269-IGA |
| Authors |
|
AICHA ZERROUKI * High school of biological sciences of Oran Algeria |
| Abstract |
| This study investigates the extraction, purification, and characterization of bioactive compounds, with a particular focus on capsaicin, from Capsicum annuum cultivated in the Algerian Sahara. Two extraction techniques were applied: Soxhlet extraction and ultrasound-assisted extraction, enabling efficient isolation of capsaicin. The compound’s presence and concentration were confirmed using Thin Layer Chromatography (TLC) and UV-Visible spectrophotometry. To achieve higher purity, column chromatography was employed, improving compound separation and isolation. The biological activities of the extracts were extensively evaluated. Results revealed significant antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, along with notable analgesic potential, assessed through in vitro assays targeting pain-related pathways. Additionally, the extracts demonstrated antimicrobial properties, supporting their multifunctional pharmacological relevance. To explore practical applications, a topical oil-in-water (O/W) emulsion incorporating the purified extract was formulated and analyzed for its physicochemical stability. The formulation exhibited promising characteristics, suggesting its potential use in pain management therapies. Overall, this research highlights Capsicum annuum from the Saharan region of Algeria as a valuable natural source of pharmacologically active compounds, particularly capsaicin, with potential applications in therapeutics and topical formulations. |
| Keywords |
| Algerian Sahara, Capsicum annuum, Soxhlet extraction, ultrasound-assisted extraction, Chromatography, analgesic activities, therapeutic bioactivity. |
| Status: Accepted |
