Nature's Weaponry

Pepper sprays are used by many for both professional and personal purposes. They work best when you fire at your attacker for a few moments. Pepper sprays are organic because their main chemical is found in the same hot chili peppers people consume. These sprays have been called everything from "defense spray," to, "mace," but pepper sprays maintain a composition uniquely their own.

Pepper sprays have received a great deal of attention throughout the past decade. Do they work? How do they work? What do they do? The best sprays will be non-toxic and non-flammable. They can either be water- or oil-based and experts recommend the oil based as it is less likely to separate over time in the respective container.

Pepper sprays are made of liquid containing: Oleoresin capsicum (or OC). This is typically the only active ingredient in the formula. The stinging effects can last from 20 minutes to 90 minutes, depending upon your product’s specifications. This is a large amount of time for anyone to escape a hazardous situation. Oleoresin capsicum extracted from the powerful cayenne pepper.

Pepper sprays are more effective than tear gas as they have an effect on even those who are already under the influence of alcohol or other substance. OC attacks the mucous membranes of a person and produce instant symptoms. The breathing tube will become inflamed, but not blocked. The eyes will be irritated and give the temporary sensation of blindness.

Oleoresin capsicum is a horticulture term, but the primary ingredient that makes pepper spray so effective is capsicum. This is the "ingredient," that makes pepper such as the scotch bonnet or the habanera so unbelievably hot. It is a powerful alkaloid that can be diluted millions of times and the heat will still be sensed.

The shelf life is another factor that makes pepper sprays as desirable. They do not have "expiration dates," and the contents are often guaranteed not to separate or change with age. They can be used, not only for human attackers, but also in situations where the threat of wild animals is present. This will offer a non-lethal method of disabling an attacking animal.

Pepper sprays are commonly tested by a scale known as the Scoville Heat Unit, or SHU. This is the same method for measuring the heat of peppers. The more advanced High Pressure Liquid Chromatography methods are also used linking digital measuring with this trusted SHU system.

Pepper sprays are often found as key chain attachments, hidden by canisters created to look like hair product containers, or any of a variety of disguises. The portability make them ideal for anyone with small pockets or purses. They can also easily fit into backpacks or camping gear without weighing the pack down.

The ultimate purpose for this spray, or any other non-lethal defense method, is to give a victim the time to escape. They are not made to cause permanent injury or disability. The best products will be suited to your habits and your life. If you enjoy hiking, camping out, or work in a field that requires you to interact with strange animals, a good pepper spray can prevent an injury or loss.