What is permethrin? 

Permethrin is an insecticide in the pyrethroid family.  Pyrethroids are synthetic chemicals that act like natural extracts from the chrysanthemum flower.  Permethrin is used in a number of ways to control insects.  Products containing permethrin may be used in public health mosquito control programs.  They may be used on food and feed crops, on ornamental lawns, on livestock and pets, in structures and buildings, and on clothing.  Permethrin may also be used in places where food is handled, such as restaurants.  Permethrin was first registered with the United States Enviromental Protection Agency (U.S. EPA) in 1979. and was re-registered in 2006.