Common sainfoin Toxic?

Updated 2026-03-06| 2 min read| 834 found this helpful

Common sainfoin is classified as non-toxic, and is recognized as a safe, high-nutrient forage crop for all livestock species

The plant contains moderate concentrations of condensed tannins that do not pose a poisoning risk at typical intake levels

No toxic reactions have been documented in humans, cats, dogs, or horses following exposure to this species

FAQ

Is Common sainfoin toxic to Humans?

No known toxic symptoms reported from consumption or contact (Non-toxic)

Is Common sainfoin toxic to Cats?

No known toxic symptoms reported (Non-toxic)

Is Common sainfoin toxic to Dogs?

No known toxic symptoms reported (Non-toxic)

Is Common sainfoin toxic to Horses?

No known toxic symptoms reported (Non-toxic)

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Toxicity Details

Humans

Non-toxic

No known toxic symptoms reported from consumption or contact

Cats

Non-toxic

No known toxic symptoms reported

Dogs

Non-toxic

No known toxic symptoms reported

Horses

Non-toxic

No known toxic symptoms reported

Toxicity Snapshot

Toxic PartsNo plant parts are toxic; the entire plant is safe for consumption as forage and for incidental contact

Exposure RouteOral ingestion is the primary exposure route, with no associated toxic risk for any species

Toxic CompoundsCondensed tannins

First Aid & Prevention

First 30 Minutes

• Rinse mouth with clean water if large volumes are accidentally ingested
• Monitor for mild, non-toxic gastrointestinal upset in sensitive individuals
• No emergency medical or veterinary care is required for standard exposure

Contact Vet Immediately

• Contact a veterinarian only if your pet displays persistent unusual symptoms after consuming very large quantities
• Routine veterinary consultation is not needed for casual exposure to this plant

Prevention

• No specific prevention measures are required due to the plant's non-toxic status
• Avoid using plants from pesticide-treated areas as forage to prevent secondary chemical exposure

Treatment & Prognosis

• Administer supportive care for mild gastrointestinal discomfort if it occurs
• No targeted treatment or antidote is needed as no toxic effects are expected

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Professional Toxicology

Scientific NameOnobrychis viciifolia Scop. (syn. Onobrychis sativa Lam.)

AliasesSainfoin、Cultivated sainfoin、Esparcette

Toxicity Grade

HumansNon-toxic

CatsNon-toxic

DogsNon-toxic

HorsesNon-toxic

Target Organs

No organs are at risk of damage from exposure to this plant

Mechanism of Action

• No toxic mechanisms have been identified; condensed tannins present are at concentrations safe for consumption across all species

Other Species Risk (CliniTox)

Information from CliniTox veterinary text.

Cattle: Non-toxic, safe and highly nutritious forage source

Sheep: Non-toxic; condensed tannin content reduces bloat risk compared to other legume forages

Goats: Non-toxic, well-tolerated as part of regular forage rations

Confusion Risk

The following plants look similar and may be confused:

Other sainfoin species Onobrychis spp.

Closely related Onobrychis species may have differing chemical profiles; common sainfoin is distinguished by its tall stalks and bright pink clustered flowers

Bush vetch Vicia sepium

Shares similar pinnate leaf structure with common sainfoin; bush vetch has small purple flowers and climbing tendrils, which are absent in sainfoin

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Related Toxic Plants

Robinia pseudoacacia

High toxicity

Lupine

Lupinus spp.

Moderate toxicity

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Data Sources

1. CliniTox (Universität Zürich)

This information is for reference only and does not constitute medical advice. If ingestion or poisoning is suspected, seek medical or veterinary attention immediately.