Chrysanthemums are flowering plants that are native to East Asia as well as northeastern Europe. It has a wide array of flower variants. Further, a lot of flowers are under the Chrysanthemum genus.
5 Best-Selling Chrysanthemum Plant
Also, this plant has an aesthetic role in a flower garden. It has different colored variants that give life to a lawn. Also, people extract flowering plants tea. Tea made from this plant is beneficial for one’s health and is a common product sold in the market.
Chrysanthemum plants are also commercially used as an ingredient for pest repellent production. Companies use another variant of this plant for this.
The specific species used is Chrysanthemum cinerariifolium with the common name dalmatian chrysanthemum. Another is Chrysanthemum coccineum, commonly known as pyrethrum daisy.
The plants are used in brands that are labeled pyrethrum-based and some companies label their products with “made with pyrethrum extract. To know more about what pests chrysanthemum plant repel and how to use it as a repellent, read on.
Pyrethrum in Chrysanthemum
Pyrethrum is the natural chemical derived from the plant. The substance pyrethrin found in pyrethrum makes it a potent pesticide and repellent.
Furthermore, this is a powerful insecticide. Likewise, it is particularly beneficial for organic pest control in gardens and farms.
It kills aphids, whiteflies, beetles, ticks, spider mites, pickle worms, and leafhoppers. This plant is also a popular ingredient among mosquito misting systems. Moreover, pyrethrum serves as a neurotoxin to these insects leading to nervous system deterioration and death.
This chemical is natural and non-toxic. However, commercially produced insecticides incorporate other potentially harmful compounds.
For example, piperonyl butoxide is added to pyrethrum-based products. A mix like this can be dangerous in large amounts. So, you must use these with caution.
The best and safest way to use chrysanthemums as an insect repellent is to make your own. This will certainly be an all-natural solution. Nevertheless, you must use the product carefully because it can still cause skin irritation and harm to your pets and fishes.
How to Use Chrysanthemum as a Repellent
When doing the following steps below, make sure not to expose your skin too much on the extracted liquid. Most importantly, use personal protective equipment and do not handle them with your bare hands. The minimum protection you can use is gloves. If you are going to be exposed with the plant’s vapours, use a mask as well.
This high concentration of oil or powder can be harmful when not properly handled.
Also, never throw away large amounts in bodies of water as this can harm fishes. Pyrethrin easily degrades upon exposure to high temperatures and sunlight. It is better to expose it first before disposing of it.
Use the products sparingly unless you are just planting the flower itself because the plant is considered safe unless consumed.
1. Use Chrysanthemum as a Companion Plant
This is the most natural method if you want to use this plant as a natural insect and pest repellent. The scent that the flowers give off is repulsive to common garden pests and simply planting them near the other plants you want to protect can consequently help.
Grow your own by buying Chrysanthemum seeds available on Amazon. Many variants of chrysanthemums are available on the market. However, not all of them contain pyrethrum. Make sure to buy the correct variants: Chrysanthemum cinerariifolium and Chrysanthemum coccineum. Planting the wrong Chrysanthemum plant that does not have pyrethrum will not have the same repelling effect.
Arrange your plant so that they cover the other plants that need protection. You can either put them in the middle or on the edges of your plant bed. Your chrysanthemum can both serve as an additional beautifier for your garden and as a shield against harmful insects as well.
2. Concentrated Dust
Do this method if the flowers are available near you. This technique is applicable when you want to drive off mosquitoes from corners and crooks in a certain area. Furthermore, sprinkle the resulting dust on your flower beds for a more potent repellent.
Additionally, use the dust around your garden to chase off insects particularly mosquitoes and aphids. Instead of misting the area with a commercially bought solution, do this instead.
First, harvest fully developed and fully blooming flowers. Choose those near the center of the plant as these have more pyrethrum in them than those growing on the outward parts.
Next, hang these flowers upside down and let dry for 1 to 2 days in a cool and dark place.
Finally, pulverize the flowers using a mortar and pestle until you achieve a fine powder. Sprinkle the powder as needed.
3. Make Your Own Organic Chrysanthemum Spray
This product is not suitable for contact with skin. Use in your lawn, flowers, or places but not on your body.
First, boil 1 liter of water. Then, harvest flowers in full bloom. Like in number 2, choose those growing near the plant center. The pyrethrum in these flowers is more concentrated.
Next, take the water off the heat and let cool in a pot until its temperature ranges from 160-170 degrees Fahrenheit (70-80 degrees Celsius). Put at least 50 grams of the flowers in the water and submerge them. Remember not to inhale the vapors coming from the hot water. You can use more flowers for a more concentrated solution.
Last, leave the flowers soaking for 1-2 hours. Cover the pot during this time. Once completely cooled down, drain the solution to get rid of the flowers. Transfer the liquid into a spray bottle and use it as an all-natural pesticide.
Health Benefits of Drinking Chrysanthemum Tea
1. Relaxation
For several years, chrysanthemum tea has helped to lower blood pressure, cool the body, and reduce inflammation The powerful antioxidants and minerals compound in the infusion can help your body better regulate itself and eliminate unnecessary stress hormones in the blood.
2. Healthy Heart Function
Studies have linked that chrysanthemum tea can lower blood pressure and relieve coronary artery diseases. Some reports even say that chrysanthemum tea can be a long-term preventative measure for different cardiovascular issues like heart attack and stroke.
3. Healthy Metabolism
There are a large number of different types of Vitamin B on chrysanthemum, including folic acid, choline, niacin, and riboflavin. These vitamin contents are necessary for the normal functioning of our body.
Conclusion
Chrysanthemum plant has a pyrethrum that serves as a potent insecticide. Many brands use this natural repellent as an ingredient in their manufactured pesticides.
This plant is effective and safe when handled properly. You just need a handful of dalmatian chrysanthemum or pyrethrum daisy flowers and you can easily make your insect and pest repellent.
