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Ricinus communis (Euphorbiaceae)
CASTOR BEAN, PALMA CHRISTI
The castor bean plant provided
Victorians with castor oil to "clean out" the system. Herbalists still use
the seeds for constipation, or in skin and eye lotions as a soother. Chinese
physicians use the seeds, leaves and root.
From the 18th century, Ricinus was used as a purgative to clear the bowels and, in the
early part of the 20th century, it was a common household remedy for upset
stomachs and constipation. The Latin name refers to dog ticks and arose because of the
shape and markings of the seeds. Native to India but distributed around the world, it is
a perennial shrub or tree with palm-shaped leaves. Flowers without petals appear in
summer followed by poisonous seeds that are dark brown with light striped markings.
PARTS USED
Seeds, leaves, root.
ACTIVE INGREDIENTS
Fixed oil containing glycerides ricinoleic, isoricinoleic, stearic, and linoleic acids.
ACTIONS
Laxative; purges the bowels.
MEDICINAL USE
Used internally to treat chronic constipation and acute diarrhoea,
or as an enema to remove compacted faeces in constipation.
Also included in proprietary skin and eye lotions as an emollient to soften and soothe the skin.
In Chinese medicine, the seeds, leaves, and root of castor bean are used for a range of conditions,
including gunshot wounds, joint pains, facial paralysis, and constipation.
PREPARATIONS
Oil.
CAUTION
The seeds are extremely poisonous.
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