Gutierrezia Sarothrae - Toxicity

Toxicity

G. sarothrae can be toxic to domestic sheep, goats, and cattle when consumed in large quantities, although domestic goats are moderately resistant to G. sarothrae toxicity. Toxicity is due primarily to saponins, which can cause illness, death, or abortion, as well as to alkaloids, terpenes, and flavonols in the plant. G. sarothrae is also a facultative absorber of selenium, which can cause illness or death in large amounts. As little as 9 kilograms (20 lb) of fresh G. sarothrae consumed by cattle in seven days can cause abortions, and in cattle, sheep, and goats consuming ten to twenty percent of their body weight in two weeks can cause death. Toxicity is generally higher during periods of rapid growth, such as early leaf development, and when grown on sandy rather than on calcareous or clay soils.