What is Pyrethrin?
Pyrethrin is the name given to an extract derived from the Pyrethrum plant, which is better known as the Chrysanthemum. Pyrethrin is a natural product and it is not the same as Permethrin - a synthetic, man-made form of Pyrethrin.
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How does it work?
Pyrethrin is an insecticide that affects the nervous system of insects - it permeates the shell or skin of the insect and casues paralysis, which then leads to death. |
Does it work for all insects?
Yes - it is lethal to all insects - although higher doses may be required to kill larger insects. |
Is it toxic?
Pyrethrin is toxic to insects but with regard to mammals and birds it is one of the least toxic insecticides available with one exception - cats. Cats are particularly sensitive to Pyrethrin for reasons that aren't fully understood so it should never be used on cats or applied when cats are around. It is also highly toxic to fish and other aquatic life so it should never be desposed of in waterways. |
Can it be used by pregnant women and chidren?
Generally, manufacturers are wary about recommending anything for use with pregnant women and children under the age of 2 and the same is true of Pyrethrin. There doesn't appear to be much evidence to suggest that it might be a problem - but if in any doubt at all consult your doctor or healthcare professional. |
Which products contain Pyrethrin?
The active ingredient is Pyrethrin in the following products:
EcoGuard Fabric Spray
Strikeback Natural Insect Repellent Spray
Strikeback Personal Flea Repellent
Mosquito Coils. |
What is Permethrin?
Permethrin is a synthetic, man-made form of Pyrethrin. Consequently, it is more readily available than Pyrethrin and it is more effective.
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How does it work?
Permethrin is an insecticide that affects the nervous system of insects - it permeates the shell or skin of the insect and casues paralysis, which then leads to death. |
Does it work for all insects?
Yes - it is lethal to all insects - although higher doses may be required to kill larger insects. |
Is it toxic?
Generally, Permethrin is said to have a low mammalian toxicity - it is poorly absorbed through the skin and it is said to be rapidly inactivated by the body. However, it is toxic to cats so it should never be used on cats or applied when cats are around. It is also highly toxic to fish and other aquatic life so it should never be desposed of in waterways. |
Can it be used by pregnant women and children?
Generally, manufacturers are wary about recommending anything for use with pregnant women and the same is true of Permethrin. In high risk environments it might be safer to use it on balance but if in any doubt medical advice should be obtained from your doctor or healthcare professional. |
Which products contain Permethrin?
The active ingredient is Permethrin in the following products:
Bug Proof Clothing Treatment
Bug Proof Ultra
Nikwax SkitoStop Fabric Spray
Bug Proof Mosquito Net Treatment Kit
Pyramid Mosquito Net Impregnation Kit
Care Plus Mosquito Net Impregnation Kit |
