Pyrethrins

Pyrethrins are a class of compounds produced naturally from the chrysanthemum flower (chrysanthemum cinerariifolium). The term pyrethrum describes the mixture of six esters, including pyrethrins, jasmolins and cinerins. The compounds have potent insecticidal activity through targeting off insects’ nervous systems. They are becoming the first-choice pesticides as an effective organic option against a wide range of pests. Pyrethrum products do not show persisting toxicity in humans, unlike the organophosphates and organochlorides. Toxicity to bees is one of the major concerns with this product, requiring overnight, liquid form application of the product.

The compounds are natural esters comprising either a chrysanthemic acid (group I) or pyrethric acid (group II) and an alcohol such as pyrethrolone. The six pyrethrin reference standards include two pyrethrins (pyrethrin I, pyrethrin II), two cinerins (cinerin I, cinerin II), and two jasmolins (jasmolin I, and Jasmolin II).