What is the Difference Between Pyrethrin and Permethrin?

Pyrethrin and permethrin are both insecticides used for controlling insects in industrial and domestic environments. The key difference between the two is that pyrethrin is a naturally occurring substance derived from Chrysanthemum cinerariifolium, while permethrin is a synthetic substance created in laboratories.

Pyrethrin:

• Naturally occurring substance derived from Chrysanthemum cinerariifolium.
• Rapidly degraded by sunlight and air.
• Less toxic than permethrin.
• Has low toxicity for mammals and degrades quickly in sunlight and air.

Permethrin:

• Synthetic substance made in laboratories.
• Belongs to the family of synthetic chemicals called pyrethroids.
• More toxic than pyrethrin.
• Acts on sodium channels in mammals, making it more toxic than pyrethrin.

Both pyrethrin and permethrin are used as insecticides and insect repellents. They target the nervous system of insects, killing fleas, ticks, and other insects. However, permethrin is more toxic than pyrethrin and can have adverse effects on some animals, such as cats. It is essential to use these insecticides with caution and follow the recommended guidelines to minimize potential risks to humans and animals.

Comparative Table: Pyrethrin vs Permethrin

Here is a table summarizing the differences between pyrethrin and permethrin:

Pyrethrin is a natural insecticide derived from Chrysanthemum flowers, while permethrin is a synthetic insecticide based on the chemical structure of pyrethrins. Pyrethrin has low toxicity for mammals and is rapidly degraded by sunlight and air. In contrast, permethrin is more toxic than pyrethrins and is less sensitive to sunlight, making it more stable in various conditions. Permethrin can harm the environment by contaminating soil and water sources, posing a long-lasting risk to aquatic ecosystems.