Washington, Sep 10 - Scientists have discovered a naturally occurring hormone that helps plants rid themselves of certain pesticide residues.

Scientists in China are reporting the 'intriguing' discovery that a natural plant hormone, applied to crops, can help plants eliminate residues of certain pesticides.

New ways of minimising pesticide residues that remain in food crops after harvest have been sought by scientists - with little success. Previous research suggested that plant hormones called brassinosteroids (BRs) might be an answer to the problem.

Cucumber plants were treated with one type of BR and then various pesticides, including chloropyrifos (CPF), a broad-spectrum commercial insecticide.