General Information:

Alpha-hexachlorocyclohexane is an insecticide that is not generally approved for use in the developed world. It is moderately toxic to mammals and considered to be carcinogenic. Alpha-hexachlorocyclohexane has a low aqueous solubility and is highly volatile. It is moderately persistent is soil and slightly mobile. It is moderately toxic to birds and aquatic organisims. Historically an insecticide and a component of the mixed isomer product but now only produced as a byproduct of lindane production. It is also a lindane impurity that has some insecticidal properties. There are nine stereoisomers (eight diastereomers, one of which has two enantiomers).

EPA/USP Method

USP Method 561 - Chlorinated Pesticides: Determination of pesticides in articles of botanical origin by gas chromatography. Many botanicals are treated as dietary supplements and are subject to statutory provisions that govern foods.