How does rubbing alcohol kill bugs

[ArronOB]

We have ongoing problems with biosduval scale here. I usually control it with isopropyl alcohol. It’s made me wonder - how does the alcohol work. Does it poison, smother or something else?

Cheers
Arron

[Ray]

My understanding is that the alcohol breaks down waxy, protective layers, leading to desiccation.

If you have an "ongoing boisduval scale" problem, forget alcohol and do a treatment regimen with a "real" insecticide like acephate or imidicloprid.

[dounoharm]

KILL THEM BUGS! your orchids will thank you!

[Optimist]

I would kind of wonder whether the orchid leaf also has a waxy or another membrane that can be "killed" by certain harsh chemicals. Hydrogen peroxide is well known for being a cellular killer, cytotoxic, and yet people throw it around on everything with wild abandon.

[Dollythehun]

I have overused insecticidal soap and "washed" the cuticle off the orchid leaves. Ray is right, a good systemic will work best.