The fatty oil obtained by cold expression from the seeds of Ricinus communis. It is a clear, almost colourless or slightly yellow, viscous, hygroscopic liquid. Miscible with alcohol and with glacial acetic acid; slightly soluble in petroleum spirit.
Indications
Castor oil is used externally for its emollient effect. It has also been used topically to allay irritation due to foreign bodies in the eye. Castor oil may be employed as the solvent in some injections.
Castor oil is used for bowel evacuation before radiological procedures, endoscopy, surgery, it has been used as a laxative, but such use is obsolete.
Contraindications
Intestinal obstruction.
Adverse Effects and Precautions
Oral administration of castor oil, particularly in large doses, may produce nausea, vomiting, colic, and severe purgation. Castor oil should be used with caution in pregnancy and menstruation..
The seeds of Ricinus communis contain a toxic protein, ricin. Allergic reactions have been reported in subjects handling the seeds.
Products
CASTOR OIL, AROMATIC 60-100ML/BOTTLE