Pepper Spray gets its name from the active ingredient that causes the desired effect of the less than lethal option. Startlingly simple, pepper spray comes from capsaicin which comes from the inside of the fruit of different pepper plants. The capsaicin causes instant reactions to the mucous membranes and respiratory system of animals of all types, including humans, such that a violent coughing, sneezing and tearing up of the eyes will nearly incapacitate any target. Most modern pepper spray options will give you at least 12 feet or effective distance for the compressed spray delivery system.