Antimicrobial Activity of Capsaicinoids The chemicals in the pods of hot peppers responsible for pungency (perceived heat) are Capsaicinoids, of which there are over 12 similar compounds that are present in varying concentrations.  The two principle Capsaicinoids are capsaicin and dihydrocapsaicin.  These two compounds typically represent between 80-95% of the total Capsaicinoids.  Studies of these [...]