Castor oil plant (Ricinus communis) originates from tropical Africa and is widely recognized for its seeds, from which castor oil is extracted for various industrial and medicinal applications. However, castor leaves also possess properties that have been traditionally used in folk medicine.
Benefits of Castor Leaves:
Medicinal Properties: In traditional medicine, castor leaves have been used to treat digestive issues, inflammation, and as a natural remedy for skin and hair care.
Traditional Applications: They have been used for stomach pain, fever, flu, infections, and wound healing.
Precautions and Considerations:
Toxicity: It’s important to note that castor seeds contain ricin, an extremely dangerous toxin. While castor leaves contain much lower levels, caution should still be exercised when using them.
Topical Use Only: Due to the potential presence of toxic compounds, castor leaves should only be applied externally and should never be ingested.
Medical Consultation: Before using castor leaves for medicinal purposes, consulting a healthcare professional is essential to ensure safe and appropriate use.
Conclusion:
Castor leaves have been valued in traditional medicine for their numerous benefits. However, it is crucial to use them cautiously and under medical guidance due to potential toxicity risks. 
