I don’t think capsaicin is that much of an insecticide. AFAIK its primary purpose is to deter consumption by mammals since the seeds are more likely to survive if eaten by birds (who are immune to capsaicin).
Of course that makes it extra amusing that we’re specifically after this stuff.
I don’t think capsaicin is that much of an insecticide. AFAIK its primary purpose is to deter consumption by mammals since the seeds are more likely to survive if eaten by birds (who are immune to capsaicin).
Of course that makes it extra amusing that we’re specifically after this stuff.
But, because we like it so much, we cultivate it and protect it, ensuring its continued survival. In a way, the plant has domesticated us.
Plants: evolves to produce chemical that causes pain from consumption
Humans: evolves to become masochistic