Bill who putters wrote:
In article ,
brooklyn1 wrote:

http://www.finegardening.com/plants/...den-myths.aspx

"Myth: Organic pesticides are less toxic than synthetic ones
Truth:
Misused pesticides can be harmful, regardless of whether they are
considered natural or synthetic.


Pyrethrum, for example, is made from chrysanthemums but is still toxic
to people and pets when handled improperly.

Whenever possible, it's best to select the least toxic control option
available because, even if not lethal, many of these pesticides can
cause serious health complications. Safe storage of these products can
help prevent any harmful accidents. Read and follow all label
directions, and remember that these products are tools, not miracle
workers or silver bullets. Pesticides cannot correct mistakes made in
plant selection, installation, or maintenance."
.............................
Being Picky

I've found pyrethrum to be an excellent insecticide. That said I've
noticed that Pyrethrum is usually dissolved in xylene and combined
with rotenone.

1) Xylene is a human carcinogen.

2) Rotenone has a ongoing study for human effects like Parkinson's
disease.

But just pyrethrum

http://www.greenislanddistributors.c...600Xclude_MSDS
.pdf

Says slight #1 on all counts


One of the little laughs I get from some of my strict (devout?) organic
growing friends is that pyrethrums made in a lab are harmful but those
extracted from the flower are OK. This little bit of wisdom is enshrined in
some organic certification standards!

David