Oleoresin capsicumOleoresin capsicum (OC) is used in pepper spray, some pharmaceuticals, and in some spicy sauces. Oleoresin is “a naturally occurring mixture of oil and a resin extracted from various plants…” according to the American Heritage Dictionary. Capsicum is, of course, the genus to which hot peppers and chilies belong. The process to make OC is relatively simple; first, simply grind up a bunch of capsicum peppers into a very fine powder, the finer the more efficient the extraction. The quality and degree of hotness, as well as the blend of peppers used will determine the specific spice levels and flavor (ie. ratios of the 5 capsaicinoids) of the OC. Next, mix the ground peppers with an organic solvent such as ethanol, one that will evaporate quickly and easily. Everclear (found at most local liquor stores) contains 95.3% ethanol, and will work great in extracting your resin. Lastly, decant (pour) off the liquid, leaving the solid chunks at the bottom of the mixing flask. Leave the liquid in a well ventilated place to evaporate. If you have access to a Rotovap, or a distillation apparatus, use that to evaporate the solvent, otherwise you can gently heat it on a stove. The gooey resin left over after complete evaporation is OC. If you want to make your very own hot sauce or chili using OC made this way, go ahead but be forewarned, this stuff is very hot, especially if habaneros or chilies were used. Most commercial hot sauces with “Death” or “Suicide” or “Atomic” in the name are made with OC. Oleoresin capsicum spray is basically made by the same process, except to solubilize it in water, propylene glycol is added to suspend it in solution. Then it is put into a pressurized bottle to make it an aerosol. The oleoresin capsicum effects in this form are sever burning and redness to the eyes, and it is very dangerous. Decontamination of OC in this form is difficult, as it is not soluble in water, even in large volumes. Milk is sometimes used, but the best way is to wash out with baby shampoo, as this will not cause further irritation. |
Oleoresin capsicum (OC) is used in pepper spray, some pharmaceuticals, and in some spicy sauces. Oleoresin is “a naturally occurring mixture of oil and a resin extracted from various plants…” according to the American Heritage Dictionary. Capsicum is, of course, the genus to which hot peppers and chilies belong.