Seasonal Concentration and Toxicity of Saponins in Alfombrilla

Abstract

Alfombrilla collected monthly for 1 year in Chihuahua, Mexico, was analyzed for percentage of saponin and for toxicity to 1-week-old chicks. Saponin level ranged from 2.8% in dormant plants collected in January to 6.3% in mature fruiting plants collected in September. Saponin level was low in seeds. High saponin levels may persist in dormant plants into December. The amount of plant required to kill 50% or more of the chicks was inversely proportional to the saponin level of the plants.