Ricinus communis
Ricinus communis
Ricinus communis, commonly known as the Castor oil plant, 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.
Pronunciation
Ricinus communis: /riːsɪnəs kəˈmjuːnɪs/
Etymology
The term Ricinus is a Latin word, which means "tick". The plant is named so due to the resemblance of its seeds to a tick. The species epithet communis means "common".
Description
Ricinus communis is a fast-growing, shrub-like plant, typically reaching a height of around 3.9–13.1 feet. The glossy leaves are 15–45 centimeters long, long-stalked, alternate and palmate with 5–12 deep lobes with coarsely toothed segments. The flowers are borne in terminal panicle-like inflorescences of green or red monoecious flowers. The fruit is a spiny, greenish capsule containing large, oval, shiny, bean-like, highly poisonous seeds with variable brownish mottling.
Medical Uses
The seeds of Ricinus communis are the source of Castor oil, which has several medicinal uses. It is used as a laxative, in skin care products, and to induce labor in pregnant women. The plant also has potential uses in pest management and can be used to produce biodiesel.
Related Terms
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Ricinus communis
- Wikipedia's article - Ricinus communis
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