Botanical Name

Ricinus communis Linn.

Common Name

Castor bean plant, Erand (Hindi), Amanakku (Tamil), Erandah (Sanskrit)

Distribution

Throughout India

Religious association

The Swayambu lingam at Koteeswarar Temple at Tirukottaiyur is said to have appeared under this plant.

Uses

The use of castor seed oil in India has been documented since 2000 BC for use in lamps and in local medicine as a laxative.

It is also used in the manufacture of soaps, lubricants, paints and varnishes.