How much seeds of Ricinus communis are fatal?
The median lethal dose (LD50) of ricin is around 22 µg/kg in humans if exposure is from injection or inhalation while oral exposure to this lectin is less toxic (though still toxic) and a lethal dose can be up to 20–30 mg/kg [78]. However, ingestion of seeds of the castor oil plant is rare [74].
How do you grow Ricinus from seed?
Fill individual pots with seed compost, sow the ricinus seeds and place in a heated propagator to germinate. Seeds need 15 to 20°C and should germinate in two to six weeks. Pot on when seedlings are large enough to handle and move outdoors or plant up into containers or borders when all danger of frost has passed.
Is Ricinus communis illegal?
Growing the plant as an ornamental or a crop is not illegal, but extracting and concentrating ricin from it is, as you would in effect be making a potent biological weapon (obviously, I do not recommend that, either). Please read on for a full explanation.
What is Ricinus communis seed oil used for?
The oil derived from the seed of the Ricinus communis plant and its primary constituent, Ricinoleic Acid, along with certain of its salts and esters function primarily as skin-conditioning agents, emulsion stabilizers, and surfactants in cosmetics, although other functions are described.
Where does Ricinus communis grow?
Ricinus communis, commonly called castor bean, is probably native to tropical Africa. It is an erect, rapid-growing tender perennial that is grown in St. Louis as a warm weather annual. In certain parts of the U.S., including Missouri, it has escaped gardens and naturalized in fields, waste areas and along roadsides.
Is Ricinus Hardy?
Ricinus plants are half hardy perennials that range from 90 cm to 1.8 m in height. They are an erect plant that carry large lobed leaves; these may be red, bronze, green or purple in colour. They bloom in the middle of summer when they carry clusters of red or green flowers.
What happens if you get caught with ricin?
In cases of known exposure to ricin, people having respiratory symptoms should seek medical care. Ingestion: If someone swallows a significant amount of ricin, he or she would likely develop vomiting and diarrhea that may become bloody. Severe dehydration may be the result, followed by low blood pressure.
Is it legal to own ricin?
Ricin has been illegal since July 2019, according to The Associated Press. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, ricin is part of the “waste mash” that occurs when processing castor beans into castor oil. “Ricin is very toxic.
Is Ricinus communis good for hair?
Castor oil, also known as Ricinus communis, is nutrient-rich vegetable oil from castor beans. “Some benefits of using castor oil include increased gloss or shine of the hair, increased hair shaft flexibility by coating the hair shaft, [and] providing antimicrobial properties,” says Dr. Hill.
How long does castor seed prevent pregnancy?
Birth control. Early research suggests that taking a single dose of castor seeds with the outer coat removed might prevent pregnancy for up to 8-12 months.