Eco-Friendly Insecticides
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I refrain from using insecticides in the home since they can be harmful to children and pets. But I recently came across an “eco-friendly” insecticide that claims to be safe for use around animals. Is it?
- Andrea
Dear Andrea,
Many such products contain essential oils, which have the potential to cause eye, skin and gastrointestinal irritation, as well as central nervous system depression. It’s important to keep in mind that while there may be certain benefits to using botanical products, natural doesn’t necessarily mean safe. In fact, many plants, animals and other organisms found in nature can be highly toxic. Therefore any insecticide—natural or not—needs to be used per label directions to avoid accidental overexposure.