Question

Ricinus Communis, which yields Castor oil, belongs to the family
A. Meliaceae
B. Pedaliaceae
C. Cruciferae
D. Euphorbiaceae

Answer 1

Castor-oil vine, (Ricinus communis), also called castor bean, large plant of the spurge family grown commercially for the medicinal and industrial uses of its oil and for use in landscaping.

Complete Answer:
- The castor-oil plant, possibly native to tropical Africa, has become naturalised in the world's warm regions. The plants are mainly cultivated, mainly as a source of castor oil, in India, China and Brazil.
- There are hundreds of natural forms and several horticultural varieties, although the plant is the sole species in its genus. The oil-rich seeds contain poison ricin, one of the most poisonous substances known, and it can be lethal to eat chewed seeds. It belongs to the Euphorbiaceae.
- Ricin is a harmful protein (toxalbumin) found in castor-oil plant bean-like seeds (Ricinus communis). One of the most toxic substances known is Ricin, discovered in 1888 by the German scientist Peter Hermann Stillmark. Because of its possible use as a biological weapon, it is of particular significance.
- Accidental ricin exposure is uncommon and occurs mainly from castor seed ingestion. Because of the ricin concentrated in their mottled bean like seeds, the bristly spined bronze-to-red clusters of fruits are attractive but are frequently removed before they mature.

The correct Answer is option (D) Euphorbiaceae.

Note: Purified ricin occurs in the form of a white soluble powder derived from castor seeds or from the waste materials produced during castor oil processing. Via ingestion, inhalation, or injection, purified ricin may enter the body. After ingestion, the early signs of poisoning include diarrhoea and vomiting, which can lead to dehydration.