Significant for maintaining an ecological balance in ecosystems

AGRIPULSE - NORTH WEST - Xylotheca kraussiana, or African-dogrose, is part of the ACHARIACEAE family.

- Naas Grové

Plants in this family produce cyanide compounds as a natural pesticide. When an insect or animal chews the leaves, these chemicals mix to form a 'cyanide booby-trap', poisoning the predator by causing conditions where oxygen delivery, uptake, or use by tissues is inadequate, often associated with carbon dioxide retention. Studies show that leaf extracts from the African-dogrose contain acetone, which has antifungal properties against agricultural fungi. Acetone, found in nature and the human body, can irritate eyes, nose, and skin upon exposure.