Paraquil

Paraquil is a trade name for the herbicide paraquat dichloride. It is a fast-acting, non-selective contact herbicide used to control a wide range of weeds and grasses. Paraquat is absorbed by green plant tissue and causes rapid cell membrane destruction, leading to wilting and death. It is often used for pre-plant burndown, weed control in orchards and vineyards, and in some aquatic weed management programs.

Paraquat is known for its high toxicity to humans and animals if ingested, inhaled, or absorbed through the skin. Due to these risks, its use is highly regulated in many countries, with strict application guidelines and personal protective equipment requirements. In some regions, paraquat has been banned or severely restricted due to concerns about its health and environmental impacts. Despite these concerns, it remains an effective and widely used herbicide in agriculture where permitted. Its rapid action and effectiveness against resistant weeds contribute to its continued use in certain markets. The environmental persistence of paraquat is generally low, as it binds tightly to soil particles and is rapidly degraded by sunlight and microbial action.