The Pyrethrins story is one of a simple daisy with rare natural properties (nature’s own insecticide). Pyrethrins is actually a mix of three naturally-occurring closely-related insecticidal compounds extracted from chrysanthemum flowers, Pyrethrins I, and the 3 corresponding esters of pyrethrin acid, i.e., Pyrethrins II. In the U.S.A., this mix is standardized as 50 plus or minus 2%. These compounds disrupt sodium channels in the neurons of insects causing knockdown and death. It has some acarycidal activity. It is used to control a wide spectrum of insects and mites in public health, stored products, animal houses, and on domestic and farm animals.
