Pepper spray is an irritant that affects humans and other mammals. The term usually refers to a spray device containing the active ingredient oleoresin capsicum (OC). Oleoresin capsicum is derived from the flesh of tropical and subtropical chili plants. The misleading component of the name "pepper" came into German through the English term "pepper spray," where "pepper" (also chili pepper, red pepper, etc.) refers to chili pods. Additionally, the name can be attributed to a similarity in the spiciness of the two unrelated plants. Oleoresin capsicum is a natural, colorless active ingredient that is not corrosive.