Friday, September 30, 2005
Killing Termites Without Poisons
In the near future you may be able to get rid of termites without using poisons and chemicals like chlorpyrifos which is a toxic nerve poison. This article reports on research being done on sap from an Australian tree called the False Sandalwood Tree (Eremophila mitchellii Benth.). Tests have shown that this sap extract has been an effective termite repellant and termicide. Preliminary tests have shown that even low concentrations of this extract have been effective. The chemical responsible for the anti-termite properties has been isolated. The researchers are now trying to replicate it. Also, further tests are needed to see if it's effective against other kinds of termites.
They should see how it does against the Subterranean Formosan termites which are one of the most damaging kinds. If it works on these, I bet It'll work on many others.
I wonder if it's possible to get extracts of this False Sandalwood tree now. I found information about this tree, and the oil from its wood and bark is known as Buddha Wood Oil. It's used for pain relief of sore muscles. But I guess it's questionable whether this would work as a toxic-free pesticide.
They should see how it does against the Subterranean Formosan termites which are one of the most damaging kinds. If it works on these, I bet It'll work on many others.
I wonder if it's possible to get extracts of this False Sandalwood tree now. I found information about this tree, and the oil from its wood and bark is known as Buddha Wood Oil. It's used for pain relief of sore muscles. But I guess it's questionable whether this would work as a toxic-free pesticide.
# posted by Ken @ 7:09 AM 
