Tag: Castor bean

Did you know that the castor bean plant contains one of the most poisonous plant proteins known to man? This article explores what plant protein is highly toxic, focusing on the lethal compounds found in common yet dangerous plants.

Derived from the seeds of the Ricinus communis plant, castor oil has been used for thousands of years for its medicinal and beauty benefits, with evidence pointing to its use in ancient Egypt.

Ingesting even a few chewed castor oil seeds can be deadly for an adult due to the potent ricin toxin they contain. Therefore, the answer to 'Are castor oil seeds harmful?' is a resounding yes, though the refined castor oil is safe for use.

Ricin is one of the most poisonous plant-based toxins known, and is found naturally in the seeds of the castor bean plant, not a true nut. The common query, 'What nut has ricin?', stems from a dangerous misconception that can be clarified through a better understanding of plant-based foods and toxins.