As a botanist and toxicologist with a keen interest in plant toxins, I've spent considerable time researching the effects of various plant substances on the human body. Among these, the castor seed, derived from the Ricinus communis plant, is particularly noteworthy due to its high toxicity.

The castor seed contains a potent protein toxin known as ricin. Ricin is one of the most poisonous naturally occurring substances known to science. It is a type of toxin that can inhibit protein synthesis within cells, leading to cell death. The mechanism of action involves the inactivation of ribosomes, which are the cellular machinery responsible for protein synthesis. This disruption can lead to widespread cellular dysfunction and, in severe cases, death.

The toxicity of ricin is such that it is estimated that as little as one milligram could be lethal to an adult human. This makes it an extremely dangerous substance, especially when ingested or inhaled. Ricin is also toxic to animals and insects, indicating its broad-spectrum lethality.

However, it's important to note that the toxicity of ricin is not just due to its presence in the seed but also how it is processed and delivered to the body. Ricin is relatively stable and can resist heat and digestive enzymes, which means it can survive cooking processes and still pose a threat if ingested. Furthermore, the toxin is not readily absorbed through the skin, which means handling the seeds without proper precautions can be dangerous.

Despite its notorious reputation, ricin is also the subject of scientific research for potential therapeutic uses, such as in targeted cancer therapies, due to its abread more >>

Ricin is one of the most poisonous naturally occuring substances known. The seeds from the castor bean plant, Ricinus communis, are poisonous to people, animals and insects. ... Perhaps just one milligram of ricin can kill an adult.Sep 10, 2015read more >>