Pyrethrum: the natural insecticide for sustainable agriculture and pest control
Why choose a natural insecticide?
More and more farmers and gardeners are looking for an ecological alternative to chemical insecticides. Not only because chemical products harm the environment, but also because consumers and producers are becoming more conscious of health and sustainability.
One of the most promising solutions is pyrethrum, a flower that has been used as a natural insecticide for centuries.
How does pyrethrum work as a natural insecticide?
The flowers of the pyrethrum daisy contain pyrethrins, six powerful natural substances that affect the nervous system of insects.
- In low doses: repellent or paralysing effect.
- In higher doses: lethal to insects.
This makes pyrethrum particularly effective against mosquitoes, cockroaches, bedbugs, aphids, caterpillars, flies and spider mites, among others. It is therefore a valuable ally for those who want to practise organic farming or ecological pest control.
Advantages of pyrethrum over chemical pesticides
- Rapid degradation in nature: leaves no harmful residues in soil or water.
- Permitted in organic farming: complies with European standards.
- Less harmful to humans: due to significantly lower toxicity.
- Effective and versatile: suitable for use in agriculture, urban environments, gardens and households.
👉 Please note: pyrethrum is a non-selective insecticide. It therefore also kills beneficial insects such as bees and can be harmful to fish and amphibians. Correct use and dosage are therefore essential.
How can you prevent greenwashing in natural insecticides?
Not every product labelled as natural is 100% pure. Synergists are often added to prolong the effect.
Therefore, please note the following:
- Always read the technical data sheet and composition.
- Choose suppliers who are transparent about production and origin.
- Opt for brands that invest in a sustainable supply chain.
Pyrethrum production in Kenya: socially and economically sustainable
Although pyrethrum is cultivated in various countries, Kenya is the world leader. Thanks to companies such as Kentegra, thousands of small farmers receive a stable and fair income.
- 30,000 farming families benefit from fair contracts, training and equipment.
- The income is on average six times higher than for other crops.
- Almost half of the farmers who grow pyrethrum are women.
European companies such as Armosa are also committed to the sustainable import of natural pyrethrum.
Pyrethrum: a solution with a future
The demand for natural insecticides is growing rapidly. Pyrethrum is seen as a crucial player in the future of sustainable agriculture and ecological pest control.
The only barrier remains the higher price compared to synthetic alternatives. However, as chemical substances are banned and demand increases, pyrethrum will become increasingly accessible and affordable, and what's more, its effectiveness is superior.
The following products are based on natural pyrethrum: Mouch’Clac, Flyspray, Nebulous Turbo and Pyretrex fogger.
