| 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. |