So why would we even bother to eat these beastly fruits. In food, when properly cooked, the right amount of chili pepper produces a hot sensation in the mouth (and nose) and creates a euphoria probably due to the release of endorphins in the brain. It is this good, warm feeling that pushes us to endure the dangers of handling spicy chili peppers
Handling Fresh Hot Peppers
Hot peppers are pretty safe when they are whole and not damaged or crushed. Once you cut through the skin the dangers begin. Touching the flesh, and especially the seeds, gets the capsaicin on your hands. Chopping fresh peppers releases capsaicin into the air which will affect your eyes and airways. Fresh firm fruit tends to squirt when cut or squeezed so one approach is to soften the peppers slightly by heating them whole in boiling water. If you cut them raw, cut slowly and use a sharp knife. Open windows to allow for adequate ventilation. If you are using bare hands, you don't want to touch anything until the pepper pieces are safely contained. Also note that pepper juice can squirt on your face, hair, arms and clothing. It's very easy to transfer capsaicin to your hair and face from your hands - avoid touching yourself until your hands are completely clean.
Using gloves can help but remember to decontaminate or dispose of them with contaminating other items. A disposable head covering (shower cap) is also useful.
Washing Hands, Clothing and Other Items.
Hand washing is the first thing to do. Every time you touch a contaminated item, you need to repeat hand washing. You can transfer capsaicin to any item you touch, so it goes both ways - even the detergent bottle and faucet handle are at risk. Capsaicin is oily and dissolves in vegetable oil. One approach is coat the hands with vegetable oil and remove as much oil as possible with paper towels. Then follow up with a dish detergent wash which works better than hand soap.
Cutting boards, knives, etc. must be washed with detergent and dried with paper towels. Spray kitchen cleaners can be used on other surfaces.
In serious cases, clothing should be removed and washed. Hair, head and face should be washed in the shower. If you get it in your eyes, use the shower to flush water directly into them. Wash your hair several times.
