Ricinus communis is a perennial flowering plant found around the world which produces the castor bean, from which castor oil is extracted.
Castor oil can be extracted from the beans and may be used:
(1) as a purgative (castor oil)
(2) as a lubricant
(3) in the production of food additives
(4) in the production of coatings
(5) in the production of industrial chemicals
Adverse effects may include:
(1) allergic reactions including anaphylaxis
(2) poisoning
The toxic effect is due to the lectin ricin. This is denatured by heating during oil extraction from the castor beans.
Ricin is highly toxic and can result in:
(1) flu-like symptoms with fever and malaise
(2) respiratory failure
(3) abdominal pain with diarrhea
(4) lethargy and confusion
(5) seizures
(6) hemolytic anemia with renal failure
(7) hepatitis
(8) hypotension
