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.