Insect bites cause some of the most devastating infections in the world, like malaria and leishmaniasis. While developed countries, like the United States, do not tend to see those illnesses, people do suffer from less deadly, but still serious diseases like Lyme disease and West Nyle Virus.
Even insects that do not carry harmful microbes can cause discomfort and other types of distress. Some bugs devastate crops while others destroy infrastructures.
All of these factors make keeping bugs out of your space important. Read on to learn about the different types of insecticides that will help keep you and your assets safe from pests.
What Is An Insecticide?
An insecticide refers to a type of pesticide that specifically targets insects. The chemicals used to create these products aim to kill their target. They do so for the purpose of preventing undesirable behaviors that hurt or destroy people, other living organisms, or property.
Types Of Insecticides
Not all insecticides serve the same purpose. Some save crops while others protect people.
Gentler chemicals work well in the home, while commercial crops require more potent toxins. Depending on the intended purpose, the target insect, and the location that needs protection, you may choose from a range of insecticide types.
Inorganic
Insecticides derived from non-living natural substances fall into the category of inorganic. Chemically, the substances lack hydrogen carbon bonds.
Many inorganic insecticides contain heavy metals, like copper, arsenic, and lead, which prove very effective in addressing pest problems. Unfortunately, they often cause harm to humans and pets making it imperative to use with caution.
Organic
Organic compounds also come from natural sources. They do contain carbon bonds in their chemical structure that inorganic substances lack.
Traditionally, they come from plants and minerals. Botanical insecticides may use pyrethrins, like neem oil. Boric acid, cryolite, or diatomaceous earth all serve as mineral pesticides.
Innovative organics use microbes that target pests directly. You can get this type of insecticide at marronebio.com for amazing results.
These substances offer more peace of mind, especially when using them around children and pets. But, they do take a little more patience as they take longer to work.
Synthetic
You cannot create an insecticide guide without mentioning synthetics. These compounds do not come from nature.
Rather, they are chemically engineered in a lab for a more direct purpose. Depending on the compound, they can sometimes lead to environmental issues.
Modes Of Action
Depending on the intended use, insecticides protect in different ways. Each mode of action offers pros and cons.
Contact poisons must go through the skin of the insect. For example, you may use a spray to kill cockroaches or harmful spiders. While it takes a small amount to kill instantly, you cannot reach a large number of pests.
Other contact poisons may seep into the soil. This allows you to reach many insects that could harm your crops, but may also create toxic runoff depending on the chemicals.
Fumigants suffocate their targets. You can use them to irradicate a large pest problem in a home. But, these toxins may also impair your breathing, so you must stay away as it works.
Some farmers dust stomach poisons onto crops to stop insects from devouring them. This works effectively and is safe for humans as long as they wash their crops well before eating.
Pick Your Poison Wisely
When choosing between different types of insecticides, pay close attention to where you will apply them and what you want to kill. This will help you choose the safest and most effective toxin for your needs.
Make your wellness a top priority. Check out more ways to protect yourself on our health page!
