Ricinus communis, Castorbean, castor bean

Ricinus communis, Castorbean, castor bean, a member of the euphorbia family (Euphorbiaceae) is a large annual, or in tropical regions a perennial, up to 12 ft (4 m) in height. The seed oil, castor oil, is a famous purgative and laxative used since ancient times. Oil once used for ringworm, sores and other topical uses. The seed itself is a deadly poison, and a single seed may be fatal if ingested by a child.



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