Paraquat

Paraquat is a dimethyldipyridylium chemical compound that is widely used as a herbicide to kill weeds.

If paraquat enters the body, it can cause serious damage to the lungs, which begin to collapse within a few days of poisoning.

Paraquat is very toxic to humans. Paraquat poisoning is almost always fatal due to the development of severe respiratory failure as a result of the destruction of lung tissue.

Thus, paraquat poses a serious risk to human health if not handled correctly. It is necessary to strictly observe precautions and safety rules when working with this toxic substance.

Paraquat, also known by the trade name "Paraq", is a chemical most commonly used for weed control. This product belongs to the group of so-called herbicide substances and has been used throughout the world for several decades to combat harmful plants. Paraquat was developed in 1970 as a replacement for the commonly used pesticide glyphosate, in part because it was more water-resistant and acted primarily on plant leaves rather than roots. However, it is more expensive to produce than glyphosate.

Mechanism of action: This substance acts by inhibiting electron transfer in oxidative enzyme systems in plant cells, i.e., disrupting the normal process of photosynthesis and respiration. As a result of this, the plant dies. Paraquat is considered one of the most destructive products of the chemical industry. It is poisonous to birds, bees and aquatic life, and when applied to soil causes adult birds to die or be unable to feed, which is why it was banned for use in Europe many years ago. Despite all this, paraquat is still used in some countries to kill weeds and grains in agriculture. Sometimes paraquat is also used as a biostimulant for plant growth in horticulture. Fortunately, we now have more information about the effects of this toxic substance on the human body, as well as how we can avoid its exposure. We must know when we will apply chemical plant protection and take precautions to avoid inhalation and absorption of this substance.

Particular care should be taken when using this chemical indoors, as the vapors from this substance are very harmful to the health of people and animals. In case of acute poisoning of the paraquat type, people are hospitalized, given intravenous infusions and the stomach is washed. Now, knowing that paraquat is toxic, let's take this information on board and take all possible precautions when using it. The main thing is to maintain a safe distance from harmful plants, and if you suddenly get into a cloud of paraquat or come into contact with it, then consult a doctor immediately.