Ricinus Communis (Castor): An overview
Journal Title: International Journal of Research in Pharmacology & Pharmacotherapeutics (IJRPP) - Year 2014, Vol 3, Issue 2
Abstract
Ricinus communis Linn. commonly called as castor belonging to family Euphorbiaceae found throughout India, mostly growing wild on waste land and also cultivated for its oil seeds. Castor is a perennial evergreen shrub. The Sanskrit name erandah describes the property of the drug to dispel diseases. It is native to the Ethiopian region of tropical East Africa. Castor bean has been introduced and is cultivated in many tropical and subtropical areas of the world, frequently appearing spontaneously. The leaves contain isoquercetin 2, 5-dihydroxy benzoic acid and epicatechin. The castor oil consists principally of ricinoleic acid with only small amounts of dihydroxystearic, linoleic, oleic, and stearic acids. It used in treatment of rheumatic arthritis, paralysis; epilepsy; distention of the uterus. Castor-oil is a cathartic and has labor-inducing properties. Ricinoleic acid has served in contraceptive jellies. It is considered as a reputed remedy for all kinds of rheumatic affections. Used regularly as hair oil, it helps for growth of the hair and cure dandruff. This plant is reported to possess antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, analgesic, anticonvulsant, antidiabetic, hepatoprotective, purgative, lubricant, anticancer and antitubercular activities. The leaves (aqueous extract) exhibited 100% ovicidal and larvicidal activity against mosquito larvae. It is also used as a lubricant and for lighting and as an ingredient in fuels for precision engines. The oil is used in coating fabrics and other protective coverings, in the manufacture of high-grade lubricants, transparent typewriter and printing inks. It should also not be used when there is abdominal pain or intestinal infections such as appendicitis, enteritis or inflammation of the small intestine and peritonitis.
Authors and Affiliations
Padma laxmikant ladda
Keywords
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