Ricinus

Ricinus is a genus of perennial flowering plants in the spurge family, Euphorbiaceae. It is the sole species in the monotypic genus, Ricinus, and subtribe, Ricininae. The evolution of its distinctive seed and the explosive shattering of the seed capsule have been proposed to have occurred in the middle Eocene.

Description

Ricinus is a fast-growing, suckering perennial shrub which can reach the size of a small tree (around 12 metres or 39 feet), but it is not cold hardy. The glossy leaves are 15–45 centimetres (5.9–17.7 in) long, long-stalked, alternate and palmate with 5–12 deep lobes with coarsely toothed segments. In some varieties they start off dark red, then change to a dark purple or bronze when mature, whereas in others they start off green and remain so.

Taxonomy

The name Ricinus is a Latin word for tick; the seed is so named because it has markings and a bump at the end that resemble certain ticks. The common name "castor oil" comes from its use as a replacement for castoreum, a perfume base made from the dried perineal glands of the beaver (castor in Latin). It has another common name, palm of Christ, or Palma Christi, that derives from castor oil's reputed healing properties.

Uses

Ricinus has been used throughout history for medicinal purposes. The plant is the source of castor oil, which has a number of uses. The seeds are also highly toxic if ingested.

Toxicity

The toxicity of Ricinus seeds comes from the ricin they contain. Ricin is a dangerous poison if inhaled, injected, or ingested, and it is more readily absorbed through the gastrointestinal tract.

See also

• Castor oil
• Ricin
• Euphorbiaceae

References

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Ricinus

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  Ricinus communis 4