Allergic Reactions From Pyrethrum And Its Various Types

Pyrethrum is the name given to the natural insecticide that is produced by chrysanthemum flowers. Cinerins and pyrethrins are the major compounds constituting pyrethrum. Both these compounds are extracted from the chrysanthemum flower with the help of solvents. Pyrethrum is also a major constituent in household anti-insect sprays.

Common Side Effects of Pyrethrum

Immediate side effects of pyrethrum include skin irritation, runny nose, stuffy nose, sneezing, skin infection and skin rash. In some cases, there might be difficulty in breathing that may be accompanied with wheezing. Skin redness and itchy skin are other potential side effects of exposure to pyrethrum.

Pyrethrum is known to cause various sorts of allergy to a person. These are –

Skin Allergy

When pyrethrum comes in contact with the skin of a person, it causes irritation accompanied with mild rash. Once the allergy is initiated by pyrethrum, even if a very small amount of the chemical containing pyrethrum comes in contact with the affected skin, the damage is major.

Respiratory Allergy

Pyrethrum causes irritation to human lungs and cause asthma-like condition in a person with similar symptoms. One of the common symptoms of respiratory allergy caused by pyrethrum is shortness in breath. But other symptoms of asthma can very much be there. If not taken care of, exposure to pyrethrum in a great deal may result in permanent scarring in the lungs.

Allergy in the Nervous System

A person when exposed to pyrethrum on a regular basis can show symptoms of a degrading nervous system. Certain common symptoms of allergy reaction to the nervous system via pyrethrum include vomiting, nausea, restlessness and at times tiredness. If unchecked, pyrethrum can cause significant damage to reproductive system.

Precautions While Using Pyrethrum

Pyrethrum is a major constituent in shampoos and gels. Also, typical foam used to kill lice on body comprises of pyrethrum. It is the pyrethrum in the lice-killing foam that results in death of the lice once the pyrethrum is absorbed into the system of lice. Effectiveness of pyrethrum is multiplied when accompanied with piperonyl butoxide.

So, it should be kept in mind that whenever such a product with strong proportion of pyrethrum is used, the user should hold the bottle at a safe distance from the eyes and nose. It should also be remembered that when pyrethrum comes into contact with the mucous membrane, it causes allergic reaction. Inhaling or swallowing of pyrethrum can lead to serious consequences. There are certain guidelines regarding storage of the substances containing pyrethrum. They should be kept in moisture-free environment in room temperature. Keeping them away from direct light and heat is also mandatory.

When to Seek Medical Attention

If you had been using medication or any other product consisting of pyrethrum that resulted in allergic symptoms such as swelling of face, swelling of hands, hives, chest tightness and shortness or trouble in breathing then you should immediately visit the doctor. The allergic reaction to pyrethrum can also be adverse with throat swelling and mouth swelling. The allergic reaction to pyrethrum can also be indicated via tingling sensation in throat as well as in the mouth.