OC gas (from oleoresin capsicum), also known as Oleoresium Capsicum, is a particular natural substance that exploits the vasodilator properties of the active principle, i.e. capsaicin.< br />
It is mainly used in sprays (commonly known as "pepper") for personal defense.
Usually the canisters in which OC gas is stored have small dimensions, so that they can be carried comfortably in your pocket or in a handbag.

The active ingredient at the base of the gas is capsaicin, derived from the fruits of plants of the genus Capsicum, including the common chili pepper.

Its intensity is measured in about 5 300 000 SHU. The compound is obtained by grinding the best fruits, after which it is blended. capsaicin is extracted using an organic solvent, usually ethanol. The solvent is then evaporated, finally obtaining the resin.

Subsequently, propylene glycol is added to obtain an aqueous suspension; the whole is then pressurized to obtain an aerosol and then a spray.

High pressure liquid chromatography is used to measure the quantity of capsaicin present in the spray obtained. The OC does not contaminate, as it is neither a pathogen, nor is it a contaminant.

Its effect on the skin produces a strong inflammation of the exposed part, which can only be alleviated through the use of fresh water or physiological solutions. An abundant and long washing minimizes the effects until they disappear.

Pepper spray essentially causes inflammation, and acts in particular on the eyes and mucous membranes, such as those of the mouth.

Among the immediate effects are burning, coughing and tearing. These properties make it widely used in personal defense, marketed in small spray cans.

Although it is intended as a personal defense tool and not as a weapon capable of permanently injuring or killing, there may be complications with an asthmatic.

Each country in the world implements its own policy regarding the regulation of the use of pepper spray.

In Belgium it is considered a weapon, and its carrying is prohibited except by police officers.
In Finland its use is regulated by the Firearms Act and its possession requires a license; the licenses are issued for personal defense or for use in the workplace (supervision).
In Germany sprays intended for defense against animals are legal and can be used by anyone, as they are not considered weapons.< br /> Sprays not guaranteed by the Materialprüfanstalt are classified as weapons and therefore prohibited. The other types are only legal for those over the age of 14 and can be used on humans only for justified reasons.
In Hong Kong OC gas is considered a weapon and possession is crime, punishable by a fine of HK$100,000 or up to 14 years in prison.

In Italy, OC gas has long been considered a personal weapon , with a very small number of low concentration products (three) listed on the State Police website and approved by the Ministry of the Interior, which were allowed to be used, transported and ported without prefectural authorisation.

On May 12, 2011, with decree n°103, the Ministry of 'Interno has liberalized the purchase, possession and carrying in public for all adults over the age of 16 of any and all self-defense tools that nebulise a natural active ingredient based on oleoresin capsicum and that have no aptitude for causing offense to the person , in implementation of article 3, paragraph 32, of law n. 94/2009. (Official Gazette 8 July 2011 n. 157).

To be freely sold and free of charge, these instruments must:
Contain a mixture not exceeding 20 ml;
Contain a percentage of dissolved oleoresin capsicum not exceeding 10 percent, with a maximum concentration of capsaicin and total capsaicinoids equal to 2.5 percent;
Do not include any flammable, corrosive, toxic or carcinogenic substance in the dispensed mixture , no chemical aggressive nor any active ingredient other than the oleoresin capsicum itself;
Be sealed at the time of sale, equipped with a safety system against accidental activation and labeled with the appropriate wording indicating its irritant nature (Xi), the prohibition of sale to minors under the age of 16, the name of the manufacturer and/or importer;
Have a useful range not exceeding three metres.

In the USA, each state autonomously regulates the use of OC gas; generally, possession and carriage are permitted by those over the age of 18.