Uganda, April 6 -- When listening to farmers, I get interesting and erroneous information at times. But I always consider the information gleaned from the discussions and subject it to scientific analysis to help me advise the farmers or to detect any opportunity for improving livestock health, production and profitability.

A few years ago, a farmer I had visited talked of a plant in her compound that boosted milk production when given to cows. I had never seen or heard of the plant before. I gave the plant to the farmer's cattle, sheep and goats and they happily ate it. I got a few cuttings from the farmer and planted them in my compound.

The plant has flourished and multiplied rigorously. Most of the time I have offered the plant to s...