Ricinus communis

Ricinus communis
Family:Ricinus communis; Anthelmintic; Antidandruff; Antitussive; Cathartic; Emollient; Expectorant; Laxative; Purgative; Skin.
Common name:Castor-oil plant
The oil from the seed is a very well-known laxative that has been widely used for over 2000 years. It is considered to be fast safe and gentle prompting a bowel movement in 3 - 5 hours and is recommended for both the very young and the aged. It is so effective that it is regularly used to clear the digestive tract in cases of poisoning. It should not be used in cases of chronic constipation where it might deal with the symptoms but does not treat the cause. The flavour is somewhat unpleasant however and it can cause nausea in some people. The oil has a remarkable antidandruff effect. The oil is well-tolerated by the skin and so is sometimes used as a vehicle for medicinal and cosmetic preparations. Castor oil congeals to a gel-mass when the alcoholic solution is distilled in the presence of sodium salts of higher fatty acids. This gel is useful in the treatment of non-inflammatory skin diseases and is a good protective in cases of occupational eczema and dermatitis. The seed is anthelmintic cathartic emollient laxative purgative. It is rubbed on the temple to treat headache and is also powdered and applied to abscesses and various skin infections. The seed is used in Tibetan medicine where it is considered to have an acrid bitter and sweet taste with a heating potency. It is used in the treatment of indigestion and as a purgative. A decoction of the leaves and roots is antitussive discutient and expectorant. The leaves are used as a poultice to relieve headaches and treat boils.

Herbal Database

01.01.2005 05:35 []