Of the 3 basic chemical compounds used in self-defense sprays, there is one that is the most effective and newest, which is what I am going to expand on in this article.

Oleoresin Capsicum, known as OC, is a natural chemical and a non-irritant. The other 2 compounds are both man-made chemicals and skin irritants.

The term “pepper spray” comes from the fact that Oleoresin Capsicum is made from hot pepper plant oils. “Oleoresin” is a term meaning a mix of a partly solid substance obtained from the sap of specific plants and trees. “Capsicum” is Latin for hot pepper plant fruit. OC is not harmful to the skin or damaging to any internal tissues, while the other 2 man-made chemical compounds may possibly be toxic and harmful to human tissue.

Karate, as it is practiced in modern times, is absolutely nothing like the Karate invented centuries ago. There are many reasons for this phenomena, cultural, historical, vested interest, and on and on. This article will pin point the exact reasons the art of Karate has changed, and why it is considered a failure in the eyes of many people.

Karate was developed to defend the king of Okinawa. The techniques gathered together were specific in their intent, and that intent was shaped by having to deal with a variety of soldiers and weaponry. Interestingly, Karate had very little to do with blocking and striking, though that can be considered as valid, and more to do with disarming and maiming.