Even natural insecticides have toxic properties. Pyrethrum originates from a flower in the chrysanthemum family. They resemble the well known and beloved Daisy in appearance with pink and white petals. Geographically the flower comes from South America and Africa. Interestingly, the plant is a food eaten by some insects, such as moths and butterflies.

The reason why the insects that eat this plant are not affected by its toxins is due to the low dosage of the plant and also the way it is presented. When Pyrethrum is produced in higher concentrations, its natural ability to act as an insecticide comes into play. The insect’s nervous system is affected causing the insect to first lose control and then succumb to whatever else is mixed with the concentration.

By itself, the Pyrethrum won’t kill the insect, but it will most likely cause it to seek shelter from the effects, so adding another ingredient to the insecticide finishes the job. Having these other ingredients detracts from the natural feel of the product and you should always keep in mind that most commercial products contain these additional ingredients. As a result, you still need to take precautions when handling store-bought products promoted as natural insecticides.

Avid gardeners use Pyrethrum to protect their vegetable garden, due to its wide range of ground and winged insects. Gardeners especially like protection against insects such as aphids, cabbage worms, leafhoppers, and spider mites. Other surprising information is that it is effective against head lice, but as to whether it is recommended by medical professionals, I think more chemically induced products would be used. With this in mind, there is also a similar pest in the botanical world called the plant louse; these lice can be safely dusted with Pyrethrum.

Due to the low toxicity to humans, pyrethrum is popular as a crop spray product and is widely used by environmentally conscious commercial growers to help keep their soils and produce chemical-free. Pyrethrum natural insecticide may be harmful to fish, but is not considered a hazard to animals and birds.

Having the knowledge and using it effectively is the desire of every health conscious gardener. There are many options for pest control in the natural world, but knowing which plant is effective against which insects is probably beyond most people’s comprehension. Take advantage of your time and use someone else’s experience and knowledge to your advantage, look for books and advice from qualified people to get the best results.