Castor bean contains a constituent called ricin, a protoplasmic poison that causes cell death after binding to general cells and disrupting deoxyribonucleic acid synthesis and protein metabolism. Ricin may have analgesic and antiviral properties. Castor bean is available as a paste for external use.
Benefits And Uses of Castor Bean
Bean
Castor bean is used externally as a paste to treat inflammatory skin conditions, boils, carbuncles, abscesses, inflammation of the middle ear, and migraines.
Administration
Paste (made from ground seeds): Applied externally to affected areas two times a day for up to 15 days.
Side Effects of Castor Bean
Adverse effects associated with castor bean comprise rash, toxic reaction, and allergic reaction. Potassium depletion from herb use can growth body’s sensitivity to digoxin. Inhaled castor bean dust can cause allergic reaction.
Pregnant and breast-feeding patients should avoid use.
Clinical considerations
Discourage oral use of castor bean.
Advise sick person not to use on broken or damaged skin and not to inhale castor bean dust.
Advise sick person to stop use if develops a rash after use.
Instruct sick person to seek medical help immediately if he suspects he has taken an overdose.
Warn sick person to keep all herbal products away from children and pets.
Tell sick person to remind prescriber and pharmacist of any herbal or dietail supplement that he’s taking when obtaining a new prescription.
Advise sick person to consult his health care victualer before using an herbal making ready because a treatment with proven efficacy may be available.
Research summary
The concepts behind the use of castor bean and the claims made regarding its effects have not yet been validated scientifically.
Castor Bean Benefits – Side supervene ad Uses of Castor Bean