Chase Valley disease. Cestrum laevigatum Schlecht. (Inkberry plant), its toxic effects on ruminants

Abstract

In this paper the symptoms and lesions of an acute plant poisoning occurring near Pietermaritzburg, Natal, are described. The cause was found to be the green leaves and berries of the inkberry plant, Cestrum Laevigatum Schlecht. The plant was found to be in the toxic stage in the months of June and July. Only cattle are affected under natural conditions and the poisoning is usually very acute in type. Symptoms of acute abdominal pain are noticed and the animal may become aggressive. Inco-ordination of movements and staggering gait are seen and all the general symptoms of an acute poisoning. Post mortem, epicardial, endocardial and myocardial haemorrhages are observed. Marked congestion of the liver and spleen are usually noticed and the caecum is usually filled with blood. Treatment is symptomatic.