Pyrethrin

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Pyrethrin

Pyrethrin (/pɪˈriːθrɪn/) refers to a class of organic compounds normally derived from Chrysanthemum cinerariifolium that have potent insecticidal activity by targeting the nervous systems of insects. Pyrethrin naturally occurs in chrysanthemum flowers and is often considered an organic insecticide when it is not combined with piperonyl butoxide or other synthetic adjuvants.

Etymology

The term "pyrethrin" is derived from the Greek word "pyrethrum" (/pɪˈriːθrʊm/), which was the name for a type of plant in the Chrysanthemum genus. The word was later adapted to refer specifically to the insecticidal substance derived from the plant.

Related Terms

  • Chrysanthemum: The genus of flowering plants from which pyrethrin is derived.
  • Insecticide: A substance used for killing insects, which includes pyrethrin.
  • Piperonyl Butoxide: A synthetic substance often combined with pyrethrin to enhance its insecticidal activity.
  • Nervous System: The part of an insect's body that is affected by pyrethrin.

Usage

Pyrethrin is widely used in the chemical industry for the production of insecticides for both household and commercial use. It is also used in agriculture to protect crops from insect pests. Due to its natural origin and low toxicity to humans and animals, it is often used in organic farming.

Safety and Health Effects

While pyrethrin is generally considered safe for humans and animals, it can cause some health effects if improperly handled or used in large amounts. These can include skin irritation, respiratory problems, and in severe cases, seizures or loss of consciousness.

See Also

External links

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