Esfenvalerate is a synthetic pyrethoid insecticide – a class of pesticides originating from the chrysanthemum flower, which disrupt sodium channels. It has replaced fenvalerate, a less effective and more chronically toxic enantiomer. It can be used for general pest control, including spiders, fleas, scorpions, moths, beetles, etc. It is frequently applied on vegetable, nut, and non-crop products, often in combination with other active ingredients such as carbamate compounds and organophosphates. Product labels containing esfenvalerate include Sumi-Alpha, Hounddog, Sven, Asana, and Esfenvalerate 5EC, manufactured variously by BASF, Greencrop, and Standon.
