What wasabi has in common with scorpions and us

Grated Wasabi    (Photo by Chris 73)

Anyone who’s downed a spoonful of wasabi (and survived) must be quite familiar with its “OUCH” factor.

Turns out that wasabi's sting is related to that of the scorpion.  “How so?” you ask (once your mouth has recovered).  The toxins within both trigger a “pain response” via a nerve receptor.  Scientists are hoping that a better understanding of this response could lead to “the development of… non-opioid pain relievers.”

Can’t blame wasabi and scorpions for being a bit caustic.  They’re simply protecting themselves from harm, just as we’re hoping to do.   

Resources

https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2019/08/190822113400.htm

Copyright September 5, 2019 by Linda Van Slyke   All Rights Reserved