Ricinus communis: Plant Overview, Oil, Benefits and Habitat.
Ricinus communis is a Medical plant which produces flowers and Fruits. People known for her white bean or rich Oil. Deep Green with soft(intermediate) skin. Native in the Asian continent, Brazil, Europe and South America.In the world, 80% of Ricinus communis plants are used for medicine, 15% for Oil and 5% for Home-Design. The English name of the Ricinus communis is False castor oil plant, Castor oil plant, Castor bean, Communis plant etc. Castor seed is the only main source of Castor oil. These seeds contain 49% to 62.09% Castor Oil.
Ricinus communis: Plant Characteristics and Taste.
Generally, Ricinus communis plant grows on the sandy soil on both sides of the river. This is why it is more common on river banks or sandy soil.
If the soil moisture is 50 to 80 percent, this plant grows in clay soil. A 1 year old plant is 200 to 130 inches and a 2 year old plant is 400 to 450 inches. From the age of 2 years this plant starts to give flowers and fruits.
The well-known Ricinus communis 2 species of plant are commonly seen, but more than 40 species exist in the world. However, red and green varieties are more common in Asia.
Root of the Castor oil plant:
The roots of the Ricinus communis plant are moderately hard, although they contain 40 percent water, 30 percent wood, and 30 percent bark. The plant has taproots.
A 1-year-old Castor oil plant has 6 to 8 roots weighing 3 to 3.2 kg. A 5-year-old plant has 15 to 20 roots weighing 10 to 12 kg.
The bark of the roots is light black-purple in color and white on the base. Many believe that the roots of this plant are a great medicine for toothache and diabetics. However, there is no scientific evidence for this in modern medicine.
Leaf of the Ricinus communis plant.
In modern society, there are still many lies about the leaves of the Castor oil plant. According to research, these leaves are of different colors. The Red-Castor oil plant, the color of its leaves is light red-green. The Green-Castor oil plant has light green leaves. Although these are different species, the name or the same plant.
Although the color of the leaves of all Castor oil plant species is different, there is no difference in size and volume. The average weight of the leaves of adults (20 to 25 days) of all species of Castor oil plant plants is 10 to 12 grams.A 1-year-old plant has 15 to 20 leaves. A 5-year-old plant has 75 to 80 leaves.
Scientific Research of Castor oil leaves:
Veins: Netlike
Shapes: Hand Shape
Arrangement: Compound
Edges: Lobed
Arrangement on the Stem: Opposite
The average size of a 19-day-old leaf of a 1-year-old plant is: Petiole 2 to 4 inches, Veins 20 to 24 Lamina soft and plastid-bearing, Margin average size 25 inches, Midrib 8 inches, Tip pointed and grooved.
Flower of the Ricinus communis Plant.
The flowers of the Castor oil plant are seen in clusters at the tip of the plant’s branches. The tip of the flower is light reddish in color and the rest is white in color. The shape of the flower is SPIKE.
The flowers of this plant remain throughout the year, including in Asia, but more flowers bloom in spring. Quite soft and pollinated flowers.A 1-year-old plant blooms 200 to 300 flowers and 300 to 350 flowers in spring. Each flower has both stamens and pistils.
If you rub the flower between your hands, it will spread its fragrance and water will come out.
Scientific Calculation of this flower:
Peduncle of the Flower:
Green-Castor oil plant: 1 to 2 inches long. Dense green and soft.
Red-Castor oil plant: 1 to 2 inches long, dense red green and soft.
Flower Sepal:
Green-Castor oil plant: Dense green and 1 to 2 cm.Red-Castor oil plant: Thick green-red and 1 to 2 cm.
Flower Ovule:
Red-Castor oil plant: Red in color and 2 to 3 grams.
Green- Castor oil plant: 2 to 3 grams green in color.
Filament of the Flower:
Green-Castor oil plant: Green-white in color, narrow and thin. 1 to 2 cm long.
Red-Castor oil plant: Red-green in color, narrow and thin. 1 to 2 cm long.
Petal:
Red-Castor oil plant: Red in color with 5 petals. Weight 1 to 2 grams. 5 to 6 cm long.
Green-Castor oil plant: Red-green in color with 5 petals. Weight 1 to 2 grams. 5 to 6 cm long.
Anther of the Flower:
Green-Castor oil plant: Red-white in color and present inside the flower.
Red-Castor oil plant: Red-white in color and present inside the flower.
Style:
Red-Castor oil plant: 3 cm long, light red color and soft.
Green-Castor oil plant: 3 cm long, light red-green color and soft.
Stigma:
Red-Castor oil plant: light red, head round, soft and 0.27 g.
Green-Castor oil plant: light red-green, head round, soft and 0.27 g.
Fruit of the Castor oil plant.
The average age of the fruit of the castor oil plant is 2 months.
It is found in clusters on the stem. The fruit has a bitter taste and contains 4 seeds inside.
The fruit turns into seeds in 2 months. The fruit is hard and dark green. In the first 20 days of life, it looks like ipomoea carnea. The fruit is dark green or red-green.
A mature fruit is large in size and weighs 10 to 12 grams. The oil is mainly produced from the seeds of the fruit.
Since this fruit is very hard and bitter in taste, no domestic animals or birds eat it. It is possible to produce 10 kg of fruit per year from a 2-year-old plant and 18 to 19 kg from a 4-year-old plant.
Seed of the Ricinus communis Plant.
Castor oil plant seeds are the primary source of castor oil, which is widely used in industrial, pharmaceutical, and cosmetic applications.
The seeds contain between 40% and 60% oil, primarily composed of triglycerides, with ricinolein being the dominant fatty acid.
This unique composition gives castor oil its exceptional lubricating, moisturizing, and medicinal properties.
However, castor seeds also contain ricin, a highly toxic, water-soluble protein that can be lethal even in small doses. Ricin inhibits protein synthesis at the cellular level, making it a potent poison.
The toxin is concentrated in the seed meal left after oil extraction, requiring careful processing to ensure safety. In lower concentrations, ricin is also present throughout the castor plant, including leaves and stems.
Castor oil is used in biodiesel production, hydraulic fluids, paints, coatings, plastics, brake fluids, and food additives. In medicine, it is used as a laxative, an anti-inflammatory agent, and in wound healing.
Due to its powerful moisturizing properties, it is a key ingredient in skincare and hair care products. Despite its toxicity, with proper handling and extraction, castor oil remains an invaluable natural resource with diverse applications.
A nutritious seed weighs 10 to 12 grams. The seeds germinate in 30 to 35 days. The seeds of the Red-Castor oil plant are reddish, shiny, and have black spots on the surface of the seeds.
When the seeds are broken, white seed coats are visible on the surface. The seeds are bitter when chewed. A 2-year-old Ricinus communis plant can produce 7 to 8 kg of seeds per year.
Seeds can germinate at any time in any environment. However, these seeds germinate in high waterlogging. No.
Scientific Classification and Biological Name.
Biological Name: Ricinus communis
Kingdom: Plantae
Clade: Tracheophytes
Clade: Angiosperms
Clade: Eudicots
Clade: Rosids
Order: Malpighiales
Family: Euphorbiaceae
Genus: Ricinus
Species: R. communis
Interesting Facts about the plant.
This plant is only native to Africa.
One of the most poisonous plants in the world: The poison ricin in castor seeds is one of the most deadly natural poisons in the world. Eating just a few seeds can be fatal.
Castor oil extracted from castor seeds is one of the most valuable vegetable oils in the world, used in cosmetics, medicines, engine lubricants, paints, plastics and fuel.
Unique structure: The leaves of this plant are large and palm-shaped, which makes it easily recognizable.
Extremely fast-growing: The plant can grow 10-15 feet tall in just a few months, which has made it commercially profitable.
Natural pesticide: Castor leaves and their byproducts help control various pests and harmful microorganisms, so it is used in organic agriculture.
Medicinal properties: Although the seeds are poisonous, refined castor oil is widely used to treat digestive problems and for hair and skin care.
Ancient history: Castor oil was used to preserve Egyptian mummies and as lamp oil in ancient Rome and Greece.
Note: Do not consume these seeds without consulting a doctor. Modern medical technology is much better now.
Market Demand, Global price, Economic Importance.
The global market for castor oil is growing steadily, as it is used in various fields including medicine, cosmetics, industry and energy.
According to the current market analysis, it is expected to maintain a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 4-5% in the next few years.
Its market is further expanding due to the increasing demand for organic chemicals, lubricants, cosmetics and pharmaceutical products.
The main industries where castor oil is in high demand are pharmaceuticals and healthcare. For example, it is used for digestive aids, anti-inflammatory and medical purposes.
It is an important ingredient in cosmetics and personal care skin and hair care.
It is used in industrial sectors such as lubricants, paints, coatings, adhesives, brake fluids, biopolymers, etc.
However, now in 2025, its demand is increasing rapidly as an environmentally friendly alternative to organic plastics and biofuels.
India is the world’s largest producer and exporter, supplying 85-90% of the global market for castor oil.
China is one of the largest importers and users of castor oil.
Brazil and Thailand are significant contributors to castor oil production and export.
The international market price of castor oilhas changed many times over the past 15 years due to various factors. Such as production costs, demand, and fluctuations in the international market.
Currently, the price of castor oil in the international market is between about $1,500 and $1,800 per ton. However, this price may vary based on time and region. It is relatively lower in Africa and slightly higher in America or Europe.
Plant Benefits and Uses: Good side.
Castor oil acts as a natural laxative and helps relieve constipation.
The inflammatory properties help reduce arthritis, muscle pain, and swelling.
Castor oil moisturizes the skin and reduces and thickens hair.
Used as a lubricant in engines, machines, and the aerospace industry.
An important ingredient in the production of environmentally friendly plastics and fuels.
Used in various cosmetics, paints, glues, and soaps.
Castor oil helps control crop pests.
Castor oil waste is used to increase soil fertility after crop cultivation.
Used in Ayurvedic and homeopathic medicine. Castor oil is widely used in the treatment of various diseases.
Castor oil is quite profitable in economics and provides multifaceted benefits in the medical, agricultural, and industrial fields.
Chemical Constituents and Toxicity.
The main chemical component of Ricinus communis seeds is castor oil, which is mainly rich in ricinoleic acid.
Ricinoleic acid makes up about 85-90% of this oil, which distinguishes it from other vegetable oils. It also contains oleic acid, linoleic acid, palmitic acid, and stearic acid.
Ricinus communis seeds contain a deadly toxin called ricin, which inhibits protein synthesis and can be fatal at low doses.
It is water-soluble and heat-sensitive, so castor seeds or their residues without proper purification are highly toxic to humans and animals.
Even small amounts of this ricin can cause vomiting, diarrhea, low blood pressure, seizures, and organ failure. Therefore, after the production of castor oil, the remaining parts of the seeds are safely disposed of.
Etymology and Common names.
The name Ricinus communis comes from the Latin language. The word “Ricinus” means tick, because the castor seeds look somewhat like wood ticks or parasitic insects.
The word communis means common or common, reflecting the worldwide distribution of the plant.
Common Names of the Plant.
Bengali: রেডি, অর্ণ্য-ভিরাজ
English: Castor Bean Plant, Castor Oil Plant, Palm of Christ
Hindi: अरंडी (Arandi)
Tamil: ஆமணக்கு (Amanakku)
Telugu: ஆமும் (Amudam)
Sanskrit: एर्ण्ड (Eranda)
Arabic: خروع (Kharwa)
Spanish: Ricino
French: Ricin
The plant is also known as the “Palm of Christ”, as it was historically popular for its healing properties.
Threats and Conservation.
The excessive production and commercial demand for the Ricinus communis seed and oil industry can damage the natural habitat of the plant.
Commercial cultivation can lead to the loss of the natural habitat of the castor oil plant, especially in biodiverse areas where it is grown as a single tree.
The castor oil plant is a very vigorous and fast-growing plant, which can undesirably dominate other crops and complementary species, causing problems in local ecosystems.
The extraction process of the castor oil plant, especially the complete use of the seeds, can cause chemical pollution in the environment.
Cultivation and Care of the plant.
A. Weather: Castor grows well in warm and humid climates. It does not grow well in cold environments, so it is best if the temperature is between 20-30°C.
B. Soil: It grows well in loose, well-drained, and light, acidic or neutral soils. The soil should be warm, balanced, and well-drained.
C. Sunlight: Castor needs full sun. It does not grow well in shaded environments. 25 to 45 degrees Celsius.
D. Growing from seeds: Castor is usually grown from seeds. The seeds should be planted in warm soil, and the soil should be kept at least 1 inch deep. The seeds germinate quickly in warm environments.
E. Planting time: Plant it in the warm season, usually in summer or early spring.
Tips: Select an adequate space for the plant, as it can be a large tree. Keep a distance of 4-6 feet between each plant.
F. Watering: Although the Ricinus communis plant loves irrigation, it should not be overwatered. Moderate watering should be given, especially during hot weather.
G. Fertilizer use: Organic fertilizer or compost should be used to ensure good growth of the plant. However, using excess nitrogen fertilizer causes the plant to grow extra leaves, which can reduce flower and seed production. Therefore, 0.25 kg should be given every 2.5 months.
H. Pests and diseases: Although the common diseases or pest attacks of castor oil plants are less, insects like spider mites and mites can damage the plant. Natural pesticides or spider webs can be used to combat the disease. However, poison should be sprayed after 3 months.
I. Branch cutting: The branches of the plant should be cut well after 5 months so that the plant is straight and strong. This increases the growth and production of the plant.
J. Flower and seed collection: The plant produces flowers and seeds which can be collected later. The seeds should be collected when they are fully ripe. Many believe that the seeds contain a poison called ricin, which can be immediately harmful.
K. Yellowing or yellowing leaves: If the leaves of the plant are yellow, it is due to excessive watering or insufficient fertilizer. The amount of fertilizer and water should be given correctly every 1 month.
L. Slow growth: If the plant grows very slowly, then make sure that the soil has adequate nutrients and the right temperature. If not, then 0.25+0.25+0.25 grams of urea, potassium, magnesium should be given per plant.
Seed store process of the Castor oil plant.
Selection of ripe seeds: To collect seeds, the seeds of the plant must first be fully ripe. Usually, the seeds are fully ripe only after 3-4 months after the flowering of the plant. When the seeds crack and come out of the shell, they are ready for collection.
Shedding seeds: Collect fully ripe seeds from the plant. Collect the ripe seeds before they fall to the ground or fall from the plant.
Removing seeds from the shell: After collecting the ripe seeds, remove their shell. Separate the seeds from the shell and clean them.
Removing dust and dirt: Use a cotton cloth or fine mesh to clean the dust or dirt on the seeds.
Let the seeds dry in the light sun for 2-3 days, but do not keep them in direct sunlight and dry them in a shaded place. Excess sun or moisture can damage the quality of the seeds.
Selecting a dry and cool place: Select a cool, dry and dark place to store the seeds. If seeds are kept in an air-tight container, they can be stored well for a long time.
Use of silica gel: To reduce humidity, you can put silica gel or other moisture-absorbing materials in the seed storage container.
Change seeds every year: If seeds are stored for years, their germination capacity decreases, so collect new seeds every 2 years and replace the used seeds.
Tips: Castor seeds are usually good for 2-3 years, but their viability increases further if stored properly. If kept at the right temperature and humidity, the germination rate of the seeds will be maximum.
Ricinus communis seed oil making Process.
The process of making castor oil is quite delicate and divided into several steps. First, the seeds of the castor plant are collected, which need to be fully ripe.
After collecting the seeds, they are dried thoroughly to extract the oil, as wet seeds can reduce oil production. The seeds are then cleaned so that there is no dust or dirt.
After this, the seeds are crushed to make it easier to extract the oil inside them. This step is done mechanically or in a cold press machine, where the temperature is controlled so that the oil does not get too hot and the quality of the oil is maintained.
After the oil is extracted, the toxic substance called ricin has to be purified. This can be very dangerous, so heat or chemical methods are used to completely remove ricin from the oil.
Generally, ricin is extracted using thermal processing or chemical refining. The oil is then further refined through various steps such as degumming, desludging, deodorizing and decolorizing.
This process removes impurities from the oil and makes the oil purer and cleaner.
The refined oil is kept in airtight containers, so that the oil does not come into contact with air and remains good for a long time.
The oil should be stored in a cool and dry place, so that the quality of the oil is maintained and its shelf life is increased. This entire process makes the oil safe, pure and of high quality, which is used in various industrial, medical and cosmetic fields.
Top Popular and Eye-catching Image of the plant.
Frequently Asked Question(FAQ) about Ricinus communis.
1. What is ricinus communis ?
Answer: Ricinus communis, commonly known as castor oil plant, is a perennial shrub native to East Africa. It is widely cultivated for its seeds, which are processed to produce castor oil, known for its various industrial, medicinal, and cosmetic uses.
2. What is ricinus communis seed oil?
Answer: Ricinus communis seed oil, also known as castor oil, is a natural vegetable oil extracted from the seeds of the castor bean plant. It is widely used for its moisturizing, anti-inflammatory, and laxative properties, and is common in skincare, haircare, and medicinal products.
3. Where does ricinus communis grow?
Answer: Ricinus communis, or the castor oil plant, grows in tropical and subtropical regions around the world, including parts of Africa, India, and South America. It thrives in well-drained soils and warm climates, often cultivated for its seeds.
4. What is ricinus communis used for?
Answer: Ricinus communis, or castor oil, is used in various industries. It serves as a natural remedy for constipation, a key ingredient in skincare and haircare products for its moisturizing and anti-inflammatory properties, and is also used in manufacturing biodiesel, lubricants, and plastics.
5. What is ricinus communis (castor) seed oil?
Answer: Ricinus communis (castor) seed oil is a vegetable oil extracted from the seeds of the castor bean plant. It is known for its rich content of ricinoleic acid, which gives it unique properties such as moisturizing, anti-inflammatory, and antibacterial benefits, making it popular in skincare, haircare, and medicinal applications.
6. How to care for ricinus communis?
Answer: To care for Ricinus communis (castor oil plant), ensure it receives plenty of sunlight and is planted in well-drained, fertile soil. Water it regularly, but avoid overwatering as it prefers slightly dry conditions. Prune occasionally to maintain shape and remove dead growth. It thrives in warm temperatures and should be protected from frost.