Introduced for research purposes, the plant escaped, and has become a troublesome agressive weed in northern Utah where it continues to spread. The plant is native to the Middle East
Animals Affected
Livestock species
Goats rue (galega officinalis)
Toxic Principle
Toxicity is due to galegine, which is neurotoxic and hypotensive. Massive pulmonary edema, hydrothorax, and fluid accumulation in other tissues causes acute death. As little as 0.2% body weight of the dried plant is lethal to sheep. Animals either die acutely or seem to adapt and can eat increasing amounts of the plant.
Description
Herbaceous, erect perennials growing to 3-5 feet in height. Leaves are pinnately compound, leaflets ovate to lanceolate, 4-10 pairs, with a terminal leaflet. Appendages at the base of the leaves (stipules)are pointed or toothed. Flowers are pea-like Sepals are fused; petals 5 are bluish-lilac in color. The seed pods are cylindrical, constricted between seeds of which there are 8.
Treatment
Diuretics, oxygen therapy
Respiratory System
Severe difficulty in breathing, coughing due to the pulmonary congestion and edema
Special Notes
Animals rarely eat the plant unless forced into doing so when other forages are not available.
Goats rue (galega officinalis)
