What is Inside a Pepper Spray?

 

Pepper spray is a non-lethal weapon used in self-defense by law enforcement and civilians. Each type of pepper spray has its own unique chemical makeup, which activates the oleoresin capsicum (OC) in the pores of the victim's skin. These sprays then affect the eyes, nose, throat, and lungs causing temporary blindness, incapacitating coughing, difficulty breathing, and wheezing. 


In addition to this harmful agent being sprayed into your victim's face or eyes, they would also be armed with chemicals that cause severe burning or blistering on their skin (such as sulfuric acid). Some devices have a tray containing other substances such as tear gas to add effect when an attacker comes close.

Inside the Bottle of Pepper Spray

Pepper is a plant of the nightshade family that has been used by humans for cooking and medicinal properties for millennia. While we're talking about peppers, you may also know that some are hotter than others. In fact, the hottest peppers in existence today would be considered a type of chili pepper called "ghost peppers".


One last thing to mention about pepper: it is surprisingly well-suited for use as an insecticide. This was discovered recently when one researcher found that the extract from this common kitchen spice was killing off various pests with effectiveness on par with commercial pesticide products! Now, let's get to this recipe…. What's Inside A Pepper Spray?

1. Garlic Oil

This homemade insecticide will be made in a very similar fashion to the garlic oil that we created when we talked about "how to repel spiders". 


The recipe is one part garlic (one or two cloves should be enough) to four parts castor oil (a substitute for this can be found by using vegetable or corn oil). If you can't find castor oil, then use olive oil as a substitute. Blend these in a food processor and let them sit for at least 24 hours before adding:

2. Cayenne Pepper

This is the ingredient that gives the insecticide its red color. Cayenne pepper, which is a type of chili pepper, has been used by humans for its medicinal and dietary properties for centuries. That said, it also features prominently in recipes for homemade insecticides!

3. Diatomaceous Earth

Diatomaceous earth is one of those little-known ingredients that we often overlook when discussing bugs and pests around the home, but can come in handy when we're looking to repel them, kill them or make an effective natural pesticide!

4. Food Grade Vinegar

This is the ingredient that sets insecticides apart from commercial products. It functions as an antiseptic, anti-fungal, and antiviral agent. It's vinegar but not distilled. The reason that it's called food grade is that it must be used with food in mind (i.e. don't use it around your pets).

5. Ground Black Pepper

As mentioned earlier, pepper is a natural pesticide. It has been used for this purpose since ancient times. Black pepper has been found to have the potential to counter the effects of parasitic diseases like malaria and schistosomiasis. It also boosts the performance of antimalarial drugs!

6. Ground Coriander

This, too, is another ingredient that has traditionally been used in insecticidal recipes around the world. Coriander is known as an anti-inflammatory agent, as well as a natural insecticide!

Does it Last a Long Time?

Pepper spray, or oleoresin capsicum (OC) spray, is an inflammatory agent that causes the eyes to close and makes breathing difficult. It typically comes in aerosol cans. But how long does it last? This spray's effects don't last long enough to stop an attacker without help. In a worst-case situation, you should call 911 right away. 


Fortunately, this spray can act as a deterrent in more situations and for longer periods of time than mace. The spray also causes less eye irritation than mace because it does not contain ingredients that cause burns on the skin or eyes as tear gas might do. It can last as long as 45 minutes.


The active ingredient in this spray is capsaicin, which is the chemical that creates a burning sensation when peppers are eaten. According to Dr. David Sackett, a medical officer with Health Canada: "One way of measuring the effectiveness of this spray is to compare it to the amount of capsaicin you would get from eating hot chili peppers. 


The spray delivers about 0.18 mg/cm2, much less than eating fresh hot chilies (0.5-1mg/cm2), which would probably feel significantly hotter." These sprays are considered weapons in most states, and you should check your local laws for restrictions regarding their use before carrying one.


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