What type of chemical is a pyrethrin?

Pyrethrin is classified as a botanical insecticide because it is derived from the flowers of the chrysanthemum plant. Specifically, it is extracted from the seeds and flowers of certain species like Chrysanthemum cinerariifolium. The active compounds in pyrethrins are natural insecticidal agents, making them effective in controlling a wide variety of pests. Because they are plant-based, they tend to break down quickly in the environment and are less persistent compared to synthetic chemicals, which aligns with the characteristics of botanical insecticides. This natural origin also contributes to their use in organic farming and in settings where fewer synthetic chemicals are preferred for pest control.