What is Paraquat?
Paraquat is a toxic chemical often used as an herbicide for weed and grass control. In the U.S., the chemical is available in liquid form in various strengths. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency classifies Paraquat as “restricted use,” which means that only people with licenses can purchase and apply it.It was first used commercially in the U.S. in 1961 by Imperial Chemical Industries under the trade name Gramoxone, and remains one of the most commonly used herbicides globally, with multiple manufacturers, including Syngenta, Drexel Chemical Company, Adama Group, and United Phosphorous, among others.
Why is Paraquat Dangerous?
Paraquat is dangerous because it is highly toxic and linked to Parkinson’s Disease, a long-term chronic illness.
- Paraquat is Toxic
Paraquat is highly poisonous, so the chemical is colored blue with dye to keep it from being confused with beverages like coffee. The chemical also has a strong odor mixed in to keep people from swallowing it. In the event of accidental ingestion, Paraquat has a chemical that induces vomiting. However, Paraquat purchased outside of the U.S. may not have these safeguards added.
- Paraquat and Parkinson’s Disease
Widespread exposure to Paraquat is linked to rising levels of Parkinson’s disease, a progressive nervous system disorder affecting movement. The levels of Parkinson’s Disease are increasing dramatically among agricultural workers exposed to the herbicide.
Exposure to Paraquat
Paraquat is so dangerous in part because you can be inadvertently exposed. Some of the most common routes of exposure include:
- Ingestion:
- If someone inadvertently mixes Paraquat with food or beverages and the chemical does not contain the color, odor, and vomiting additives used as safeguards in the U.S., it can easily cause poisoning.
- Skin Exposure:
- Paraquat poisoning can happen through skin exposure with longer exposure and skin with sores or open wounds.
- Inhalation:
- If inhaled, Paraquat can cause lung damage. Some marijuana in the U.S. contained Paraquat contamination in the past.
- Through Application:
- People most at risk of paraquat exposure are licensed applicators.
If someone survives paraquat poisoning, long-term health problems are possible, including lung damage, kidney failure, heart failure, and esophageal strictures. Long-term exposure is also linked to developing Parkinson’s Disease.If you believe that Paraquat has harmed you or a loved one, contact the Madeksho Law Firm at 888-910-6376 or through our online form. Your initial consultation is free, and you never pay a fee unless we recover compensation on your behalf.
