The castor plant, Ricinus communis, has long been valued beyond its seeds. Its leaves have been used in folk medicine across tropical regions for centuries, with a range of traditional applications — alongside documented safety concerns that require careful attention.
In brief
- —Castor leaves used in folk medicine for digestive, skin and joint issues
- —Ingesting the leaves can cause severe poisoning
- —Medical consultation recommended before any use
A plant native to Africa with centuries of medicinal tradition
Ricinus communis, the castor oil plant, originates from tropical regions of Africa and has since spread across the globe. While the plant is best known for its seeds, which are processed to produce castor oil used in cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and manufacturing, its leaves have also played a role in traditional healing practices for hundreds of years.
