Abstract: Aerosol lachrymator formulations are provided having all natural pepper extracts as the active ingredient. The lachrymator formulations are useful in self-defense devices. The formulations are non-toxic and have a broader spectrum of activity than man-made lachrymators. These aerosol formulations rely on a carbon dioxide propellant, which is generated in situ.

Abstract: A lockable actuator mechanism for an aerosol or pump dispensing canister is disclosed. The lockable actuator comprises a collar fixedly mounted to a canister and an actuation plunger concentrically mounted in the collar. The collar includes a shoulder onto which the actuation plunger may be rotated into a locked, safety position to prevent depression of the plunger. Tabs located on the collar above the plunger prevent the plunger from being removed from the housing and cooperate with a detent on the shoulder to wedge the plunger over the shoulder and prevent the plunger from rotating back into the operative position. The tabs also eliminate the need for a friction fit of the actuation plunger on the valve stem. The actuation plunger has an internal annular shoulder against which the valve stem abuts in the depressed position.