Have you ever taken a bite of food and felt your mouth go numb? It’s an odd sensation, and while it might be alarming at first, it’s usually nothing to worry about.

Many foods contain natural compounds that can create this numbing sensation, and in many cases, it’s actually a sign that the food is fresh and flavorful. In this article, we’ll explore the science behind numbness in the mouth, and take a look at some of the types of foods that can cause it.

What Causes Mouth Numbness?

Mouth numbness is caused by natural compounds found in many different types of foods.

These compounds are typically produced by plants as a defense mechanism against predators, and they can trigger a mild numbing sensation when they come into contact with the tongue and other parts of the mouth. Two of the most common compounds that cause mouth numbness are:.

Capsaicin

Capsaicin is an organic compound found in spicy foods like chili peppers. When you eat a dish that’s heavily spiced with chili peppers, capsaicin binds to receptors on the tongue and other parts of the mouth, generating a feeling of heat.

This heat can sometimes produce a numbing sensation, as the nervous system responds to the perceived intensity of the flavor.

Eugenol

Eugenol is a chemical compound that occurs naturally in a wide variety of plants, including cloves and cinnamon. It’s often used as a flavoring agent in foods, as well as a fragrance in perfumes and other products.

Eugenol is known to have potent analgesic (pain-relieving) properties, and it can cause a mild numbing sensation when it comes into contact with the mouth.

Why Do We Experience Mouth Numbness With Certain Foods?

Mouth numbness is often a sign that a particular food is fresh and flavorful. Many of the compounds that cause this sensation also happen to be powerful antioxidants and antimicrobials.

For example, the capsaicin in chili peppers is known to help fight inflammation and may even have anti-cancer properties. Eugenol, meanwhile, is a natural antimicrobial that can help kill off harmful bacteria in the mouth.

As a result, a numb feeling in the mouth can actually be a sign that a particular food is good for you.

However, if you experience this sensation on a regular basis or it’s accompanied by other symptoms like swelling or difficulty breathing, it’s important to talk to your doctor to rule out any underlying health conditions that could be contributing to the problem.

Types of Foods That Can Cause Mouth Numbness

Now that we’ve discussed some of the science behind mouth numbness, let’s take a look at some of the specific types of foods that are most likely to cause this sensation:.

Spicy Foods

As we mentioned earlier, capsaicin is a compound found in many spicy foods. Some of the spiciest dishes in the world – like Sichuan hotpot or Nashville-style hot chicken – are intense enough to cause a mild numbing sensation in the mouth.

If you’re new to spicy food, it’s best to start with milder dishes and work your way up to hotter fare.

Certain Fruits

Some fruits contain compounds that can cause a mild numbing sensation when eaten fresh. One example is the fruit of the Sichuan pepper tree, which contains hydroxy-alpha-sanshool.

This compound has been described as producing a “tingling” or “numbing” sensation in the mouth, and is often used in Sichuan cuisine to add depth and flavor to dishes.

Root Vegetables

Root vegetables like ginger and turmeric are known to have anti-inflammatory properties, and they can also cause a slight numbing sensation in the mouth.

This is due to the presence of compounds like gingerol and curcumin, which bind to receptors on the tongue and other parts of the mouth, creating a feeling of warmth or slight numbness.

Mint and Herbs

Mint and other herbs are often used to flavor dishes or garnish cocktails. Some mint varieties, like Brazilian mint, contain compounds that can cause a mild numbing sensation when eaten fresh.

Herbs like cilantro and parsley can also produce a slight numbing effect, particularly when combined with other strong flavors like citrus or vinegar.

Seafood

Shellfish like clams and mussels can sometimes cause a numbing sensation in the mouth. This is due to the presence of enzymes like papain and bromelain, which are often used as meat tenderizers.

When these enzymes come into contact with the tongue and other parts of the mouth, they can produce a mild numbing effect.

Conclusion

Mouth numbness is a common and usually harmless sensation that’s caused by natural compounds found in many different types of foods.

While it can be alarming at first, it’s often a sign that a particular food is fresh and flavorful, and may even have health benefits. However, if you experience this sensation frequently or it’s accompanied by other symptoms, it’s important to talk to your doctor to rule out any underlying health conditions.