ricino

Ricino, known scientifically as Ricinus communis, is a flowering plant in the euphorbia family, Euphorbiaceae. It is native to southeastern Africa but has been widely cultivated in tropical and subtropical regions for ornamental use and for its seeds. The plant typically grows to several meters tall and is characterized by large, palmate leaves and loose clusters of flowers that give way to bean-like seeds.

The seeds are highly toxic due to the presence of ricin, a protein that inhibits protein synthesis in cells. Ingestion of as few as a few seeds can cause severe illness and can be fatal, depending on dose; inhalation or injection of ricin also poses serious risks. Because of this, handling seeds or crushed plant material should be done with care, and many jurisdictions regulate the plant and its toxins. The castor oil produced from seeds can be safe when the oil is properly refined; the ricin remains in the seed cake and is largely removed in the oil production process.

Uses: The primary commercial use of Ricinus communis is castor oil, used in cosmetics, lubricants, and industrial applications. Ornamental cultivars are grown for their dramatic foliage.

Safety and regulation: Seeds should be kept away from children and pets; disposal of plant material should follow local hazardous waste guidelines. Some countries regulate the plant and restrict the sale of seeds to prevent poisoning.

Taxonomy: Genus Ricinus; species Ricinus communis. Common names include castor oil plant, castor bean plant, and ricino.