Castor

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Castor

Castor (pronunciation: /ˈkæstər/) is a term with multiple meanings in the medical field. It is most commonly associated with the plant Ricinus communis, also known as the castor oil plant.

Etymology

The term "castor" is derived from the Latin castus, meaning "chaste", due to the plant's historical use in controlling sexual desire. The plant's name, Ricinus, is Latin for "tick", referring to the shape and markings of the seeds.

Castor Oil

Castor oil is a vegetable oil pressed from castor beans. It is a colorless to very pale yellow liquid with a distinct taste and odor. Castor oil is a natural emollient and a few drops may also be used to remedy dry skin, as a massage oil, and may benefit hair as a treatment.

Castor Oil Plant

The Castor oil plant (Ricinus communis) is a species of perennial flowering plant in the spurge family, Euphorbiaceae. It is the sole species in the monotypic genus, Ricinus, and subtribe, Ricininae. The evolution of castor and its relation to other species are currently being studied using modern genetic tools.

Medical Uses

In medicine, castor oil is used as a laxative and to induce labor. It is also used in the preparation of certain skin care products.

Related Terms

  • Ricin: A highly toxic, naturally occurring lectin produced in the seeds of the castor oil plant.
  • Castor oil pack: A method of application of castor oil to the body for therapeutic benefits.
  • Euphorbiaceae: The plant family to which the castor oil plant belongs.

External links

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