Botanical Overview
Ricinus communis, commonly known as Castor bean, Castor oil plant, or Palma Christi, belongs to the family Euphorbiaceae. It is native to Africa and South Asia but now widely cultivated in tropical and subtropical regions worldwide. The primary parts used medicinally are the seeds, oil extracted therefrom, and leaves.
Energetics
This plant is considered warming and moistening, with bitter and pungent tastes. It exhibits a descending directionality consistent with its strong laxative effect. Its tonicity is relaxing, nourishing mainly qi and blood.
Primary Actions
- Laxative
- Emollient
- Anti-inflammatory
- Purgative
Indications
Western
- Constipation
- Skin inflammation
- Muscle pain
Syndromes
- Intestinal sluggishness
- Dermatitis
- Arthralgia
TCM
- Constipation due to blood deficiency
- Painful joints
Syndromes
- Blood deficiency constipation
- Wind-damp painful obstruction
Ayurveda
- Constipation
- Skin disorders
- Edema
Syndromes
- Vata-related constipation
- Kapha disorders
Unani
- Constipation
- Edema
- Skin ailments
Syndromes
- Bawlaj
- Za‘f al-hazm
Constituents & Mechanisms
Ricinus communis contains phytochemicals including ricinoleic acid, ricin (a toxic lectin), fatty acids, and phenolic compounds responsible for its laxative, anti-inflammatory, and emollient properties.
Dosage & Preparations
- Castor oil oral 15-60 mL as single dose for laxative effect
- Topical castor oil applied as needed
- Castor leaf poultice applied externally
Safety & Contraindications
The seeds contain ricin, a highly toxic compound; ingestion of whole seeds or large quantities is dangerous and potentially fatal. Castor oil is generally considered safe in medicinal doses but can cause abdominal cramping and diarrhea. Use is contraindicated in pregnancy due to possible uterine contractions and in intestinal obstruction. Caution advised in children and those with sensitive digestive systems.
Astrological Correspondences
No reliably sourced planetary or elemental rulers identified.
Selected References
- Phytotherapy Desk Reference, Bradley P. (1992)
- European Medicines Agency Herbal Monograph (2014)
- Herbal Medicine: Biomolecular and Clinical Aspects, Wichtl M. (2004)
- Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India (2001)