Pepper spray

Pepper spray is an aerosol irritant containing capsaicinoids, usually derived from chili peppers. It causes intense, temporary irritation of the eyes, skin, and respiratory tract.

Capsaicin: Capsaicin is the pungent compound in chili peppers that activates heat- and pain-sensitive nerve receptors. It is the best-known capsaicinoid responsible for pepper spray’s burning effects.
Personal defense: Personal defense comprises measures taken to protect oneself from physical attack or immediate danger. Portable pepper spray is sold and carried as a nonlethal defensive tool.
Wilbur Scoville: Wilbur Scoville was an American pharmacist who devised a sensory scale for measuring chili pepper pungency. His name is attached to a scale often used to describe the pungency of pepper-derived substances.
Chemical injury: Chemical injury is tissue damage or irritation caused by contact with a reactive or toxic substance. Pepper spray usually causes transient irritation but can produce more serious injury.
CS gas: CS gas is a synthetic riot control agent that causes irritation of the eyes, skin, and respiratory tract. It produces similar effects through a different active chemical than capsaicinoid sprays.
TRPV1: TRPV1 is an ion channel on sensory neurons activated by heat, acidity, and compounds such as capsaicin. Capsaicinoids activate this receptor, generating pain signals and inflammatory responses.
Law enforcement: Law enforcement is the public system for enforcing laws, investigating crime, and maintaining public order. Police agencies use pepper spray in some situations to control or disperse people.
Scoville scale: The Scoville scale ranks chili pepper pungency by the concentration of capsaicinoids perceived through a sensory test or measured analytically. Pepper spray strength is sometimes described using Scoville ratings, though methods and products vary.
Corneal abrasion: A corneal abrasion is a scratch or scrape on the clear surface covering the front of the eye. Rubbing irritated eyes after exposure can contribute to surface injury.
CN gas: CN gas is a tear-producing chemical irritant historically used in law enforcement and military settings. It is an older chemical alternative associated with distinct toxicity and exposure risks.

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