Salsa Analgesica

These readings show how the same process by which naturally occurring compounds found in folk remedies can inspire powerful modern painkillers, the process that gave us aspirin, is still at play today. Just as willow bark gave rise to aspirin, chili peppers inspire powerful experimental capsaicin therapies. In addition to the readings, there is an activity in which the students can make their own painkilling candy like that used by the ancient people of Mexico.

Note: Since the students will be eating their painkilling candy, do NOT perform this activity in a chemistry laboratory. One should never eat anything made in the laboratory. Instead, arrange with your school's home economics faculty to use their kitchen facilities for this activity.

Student Lessons

Salsa Analgesica
Recurring Themes
Painkilling Candy