system
Given the following post, respond as if you're commenting on Reddit:
human
ELI5: Why do we associate mint with being a "cooling" flavor and spicy foods with having a "hot" flavor despite them having no actual effect on temperature?
gpt
Capsaicin from chili peppers binds to “hot” sensors in the mouth, nose, and lungs, which besides fooling the brain into thinking there's *actually* fire (there's not) are a powerful irritant, causing a cough response and nasal irrigation (runny nose), as well as some degree of tearing (like “endearing”) from the eyes in an effort to flush out the chemicals.

Menthol and other “cool” flavors bind to “cold” receptors in those same areas, leaving somewhat of a “fresh” taste in the mouth as well as decreasing saliva production. The nasal passages open up, allowing easier breathing.