Malation is an organophosphorus pesticide, with chemical name 0,0-dimethyl-S-(1,2-dicarbethoxyethyl) dithiophosphate. Malathion kills insects by interfering with the action of important enzymes in the nervous system, resulting in paralysis of the respiratory system causing death. Malathion is one of the safest organophosphorus pesticides, being only slightly toxic to humans and other mammals.