[M.D. Holloway]

If the food is done right it should scorch you pallet but will give a wonderful warming sensation. Just like good TexMex or Asian food. You know its great if the flavor is savory and the heat will make you sweat but you find yourself not being able to stop eating it. Spicing to heat is not easy when done right. Anyone can stoke up the plate with a ghost pepper but it doesn't make it good.

As for the baking soda trick, its not the most pleasant to drink down but it works great! It also does a great good at taken away the gullet breath brought about from the food as well.