Ornithoglossum vulgare

Abstract

DISTRIBUTION: • Widely distributed in southern Africa • It shows a preference for alkaline soils, but can grow in various different other types of soil.

BOTANICAL DESCRIPTION: General: Perennial herb that grows up to ± 20 cm high. The yellowish-white bulbs, which are sometimes enclosed in a dark brown sheath, are buried deep in the soil. Leaves: Usually about six blueish-green, lanceolate leaves, arranged alternately and clasping the stem. Lower leaves are usually longer than the upper ones. Leaves die down in winter. Flowers: Flower pendulous, green with purplish brown margins, appearing after the leaves. They are attached by rather long stalks to the unbranched stem. August - April. Fruit: Three-chambered. Seeds: Spherical and fleshy.

TOXIC PRINCIPLE: • The active principles are cardio-active glycosides • Bufadienolides.

SYNDROME: Non-cumulative bufadienolides.

SYSTEMS AFFECTED: Cardiovascular system.

CLINICAL SIGNS: • Fatally poisoned stock usually dies 24 to 48 hours after they have eaten the plants. • Non-fatally poisoned stock generally recovers within 3 to 4 days.

NECROPSY: Macroscopical findings: • Not specific - rather negative • Subepi- and endocardial haemorrhages • Lung oedema, congestion, emphysema • Ruminal atony and enteritis - even haemorrhagic • Leaves present in rumen.

HISTOPATHOLOGY: In more chronic cases small foci of degeneration of cardiac musculature are seen occasionally.

TREATMENT: • Activated charcoal is very effective. • Dose 2g/kg. • Large dose is essential. • Adsorption and fixation of excess in rumen. • Even retro-diffusion back from plasma. • Minimize stress to prevent catecholamine release. Additional treatment for valuable animals: 1. Lignocaine. 2. ß-blocking agents 3. ACP: Tranquillizer (multipotent blocker) 4. Atropine (if AV-block is present).