Safeguarding livestock from potentially toxic plant

Dr Asive Luningo from the Department of Paraclinical Science at the University of Pretoria discusses the wild sunflower's impact on livestock.

- Dr Asive Luningo

Commonly referred to as Verbesina encelioides, wild sunflower contains the toxic compound galegine. It has recently been reported in clinical cases of intoxication in sheep and cattle in several provinces in South Africa, except Mpumalanga and KwaZulu-Natal.

The same plant has been reported causing similar clinical signs in other countries. No studies have been conducted on the toxic effects of wild sunflower in South Africa. However, there is evidence of wide distribution of the plant.

We have embarked on an investigation to determine the concentration of galegine in different geographical localities in South Africa. To measure the concentration of galegine, the identification and collection of the plant material is needed. Therefore, we appeal to farmers and people in the field to assist with plant collection (aerial parts of 10 plants plus GPS coordinates) if it is present on farms, as well as reporting any suspected cases of intoxication. The information or any further questions can be emailed to Dr Asive Luningo, via Madelyn de Wet at [e-mail].