Can roots be the sources of insecticides?

Yes, roots can be the sources of insecticides. For example, they're the sources of a well known botanical control called Rotenone. Specifically, compounds in the roots of the Derris elliptica Benth. may be used as insecticides, pesticides and piscicides. The compounds may be called Derris extract or Rotenone. The latter is the name by which the derivative insecticide is known among organic gardeners in the United States of America.

Rotenone is mildly toxic to mammals, including humans. One reason for the lower toxicity levels lies in the difficulty for rotenone to be taken in by the gastrointestinal tract or through the skin. Because of its irritability, rotenone tends to be vomited back up before it can cause harm to mammals.

But despite its mild toxicity, Rotenone still has the potential to cause fatal reactions. This is particularly a concern in regard to children, senior citizens, and those with such health problems as compromised gastrointestinal tracts. So the U.S. Department of Agriculture's National Organic Program no longer approves the use of rotenone in certified organic production.

The mildness of the reaction doesn't carry over to other life forms. Specifically, rotenone is highly toxic to insects, fish and aquatic life. The reason lies in the ease with which it's taken in by the gills or the trachea.

The plant is native to southeast Asia. Other synonymous scientific names include Parraderris elliptica and Pongamia elliptica. Common names include Derris, oil tree, poison vine, tubaroot, and tubli.