Page 83 - Pharmacognosy-I (02-06-06-102)

The British Pharmacopoea (Veterinary) 2008 requires pyrethrum to
contain not less than 1% pyrethrins.

Pyrethrum flowers also contain sesquiterpene lactones
pyrethrosin and traces of volatile oil.

Uses:

1- Pyrethtum is widely used as insecticide, pyrethrum extracts
and pyrethrins are noted for their quick “knock-down” of

flying insects, particularly flies and mosquitoes. The rapid

knock down action is due to pyrethrin II while the lethality to

insects is referred to pyrethrin I

2- Pyrethrum flowers and pyrethrins are superior to synthetic

insecticides e.g. DDT in that insects do not show a tolerance

to the natural insecticides. The principal advantage of

pyrethrum preparations is their lack of toxicity to warm

blooded animals. Pyrethrum extract in kerosene is mixed with

synthetic product such as DDT to effect a positive kill of the

insects.

3- Pyrethrum is a scabicide for human beings.

4- As ectoparasiticide in veterinary medicine.

Preparations:

Pyresol: an aerosol spray for insects

Compound Pyrethrum Spray.

Pyrethrum Extract 3.8 g

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