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What We Use
- The active ingredient in the insecticide we most commonly use is called pyrethrum.
- The pyrethrum is derived from the extract of dried flowers of a
particular variety of Chrysanthemums (Cineraria folium or the
“African Daisy”). This plant variety is
cultivated primarily in parts of Eastern Africa, although crop sizes
are increasing in other regions such as Brazil, India, Australia,
and, to a smaller degree, in Japan.
- The active plant oils (pyrethrin esthers) are found in the
microscopic oil glands around the seed casings of the flower.
- Interestingly, this oil is a natural deterrent for the plant to guard against
insects that could feast on its leaves.
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Even though this chemical is derived from a natural or organic source, it is highly
refined, plus it contains a man-made synergist which makes the chemical base more effective than it otherwise would be.
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Why We Use It
- Pyrethrum based formulations are considered “general use”
insecticides by the EPA, meaning that homeowners can purchase and
use them without a license. Even though they are considered poisons,
they are commonly found around households in products such as insect control sprays, pet
shampoo, head lice treatment for children and adults, to name a few.
- When used as directed by the label, they are one of the least poisonous insecticides to mammals because
people and pets quickly metabolize, or break the pyrethrums down, in the body.
However, it is not advised to come in constant or frequent contact
with the mist, so we suggest you stay indoors during the misting cycle.
- We use the natural pyrethrum based insecticide, however, there are
man-made copies that are called pyretheroids. These are less
expensive and are used most commonly by municipalities.
- There are two significant differences between the natural form and the man
made variety. First, the pyretheroids are not as readily degraded by
sunlight or water and leave a residue. Second, there is now documented evidence
that the insect population has started to build immunity to
pyretheroids, unlike the natural form, where there is no evidence of insect
resistance.
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How Effective Is It
- The pyrethrum is one of the fastest acting insecticides known. It has an almost instantaneous effect on the system of the mosquito.
- Once the mosquito is affected, the pyrethrum causes erratic flight and knocks them
down. Paralysis results, then death quickly follows.
- Trace amounts of the insecticide also act as a repellent keeping other
mosquitoes from the target area.
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