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PYRETHRIN py·re·thrin | \ pī-ˈrē-thrən A pyrethrin: an oily liquid ester that occurs in chrysanthemum flowers and has tick-killing properties. |
A pyrethrin comes from chrysanthemum flowers and has tick-killing properties.
How it works: Alters nerve function of ticks, causing paralysis and death. EPA Registered: YES Pros: Low toxicity to birds and mammals. Binds to soil and does not readily leach into groundwater. Cons: Harmful to a variety of insects, arthropods, fish, and other aquatic organisms. Breaks down rapidly in sunlight and water. Not safe to use near waterbodies. Common commercial products containing pyrethrins For homeowner use: Safer Mosquito & Tick Killer and Safer #567 Concentrate II. For commercial use: Kicker, ExciteR. |
References and additional resources:
Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR) public health statement on pyrethrins and pyrethroids (https://www.atsdr.cdc.gov/toxfaqs/tfacts155.pdf).
Allan, S. A. and L. A. Patrican. 1995. Reduction of immature Ixodes scapularis (Acari: Ixodidae) in woodlots by application of desiccant and insecticidal soap formulations. J. Med. Entomol. 32: 16-20.
Eisen, L. and M. C. Dolan. 2016. Evidence for personal protective measures to reduce human contact with blacklegged ticks and for environmentally based control methods to suppress host-seeking blacklegged ticks and reduce infection with Lyme disease spirochetes in tick vectors and rodent reservoirs. J. Med. Entomol. 53: 1063-1092.
Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) pyrethrins and pyrethroids information page (https://www.epa.gov/ingredients-used-pesticide-products/pyrethrins-and-pyrethroids).
WCSU Tickborne Disease Prevention Laboratory, unpublished data, 2019.
Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR) public health statement on pyrethrins and pyrethroids (https://www.atsdr.cdc.gov/toxfaqs/tfacts155.pdf).
Allan, S. A. and L. A. Patrican. 1995. Reduction of immature Ixodes scapularis (Acari: Ixodidae) in woodlots by application of desiccant and insecticidal soap formulations. J. Med. Entomol. 32: 16-20.
Eisen, L. and M. C. Dolan. 2016. Evidence for personal protective measures to reduce human contact with blacklegged ticks and for environmentally based control methods to suppress host-seeking blacklegged ticks and reduce infection with Lyme disease spirochetes in tick vectors and rodent reservoirs. J. Med. Entomol. 53: 1063-1092.
Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) pyrethrins and pyrethroids information page (https://www.epa.gov/ingredients-used-pesticide-products/pyrethrins-and-pyrethroids).
WCSU Tickborne Disease Prevention Laboratory, unpublished data, 2019.
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