Toxicological investigations on Ruby Valley pointvetch

Abstract

Ruby Valley pointvetch (Oxytropis riparia Litv.), a native of the central Soviet Union, was inadvertently introduced into the United States during the early part of the 20th century. Ruby Valley pointvetch has long been established in southwestern Montana, is spreading into Wyoming and Idaho, and is being investigated for its potential as a forage plant. The plant was analyzed for aliphatic nitro compounds, soluble oxalates, nitrates, cyanide, and swainsonine. Swainsonine is found in 2 native Oxytropis species and causes the loco syndrome and congestive heart failure. The plant was tested for toxicity to 1-week-old chicks. Ruby Valley milkvetch tested negative for aliphatic nitro compounds, soluble oxalates, cyanide, and swainsonine. Nitrates were present at nontoxic levels. Leaves, stems, seeds, and pods were nontoxic when fed to chicks for 5 days at 1% of body weight as dried plant. Extracts of these plant parts fed in one dose at 10% of body weight (as dried plant) were likewise nontoxic.