Bansode Nilam U. and R.D. Chitale
Abstract
Grasses are widely used as animal feed, but some natural chemicals present in them may be harmful if animals consume them in large amounts. This study was conducted to identify toxic phytochemicals in four common grass species: Cynodon dactylon, Dichanthium annulatum, Eragrostis unioloides, and Setaria glauca. Fresh leaves of each grass were collected, shade-dried, powdered, and extracted using standard laboratory methods. Qualitative tests were carried out to detect alkaloids, flavonoids, phenols, saponins, tannins, and glycosides. The findings showed that toxic compounds were present in all four grasses, though their occurrence varied among species. Alkaloids and phenolic compounds were found in each grass, while saponins and tannins were observed at moderate levels. Glycosides were mainly detected in Cynodon dactylon and Setaria glauca. These results suggest that, although these grasses are valuable as fodder, the presence of toxic chemicals should be considered.