Ricin and Ricinus communis in pharmacology and toxicology-from ancient use and “Papyrus Ebers” to modern perspectives and “poisonous plant of the year 2018”

Abstract

While probably originating from Africa, the plant Ricinus communis is found nowadays around the world, grown for industrial use as a source of castor oil production, wildly sprouting in many regions, or used as ornamental plant. As regards its pharmacological utility, a variety of medical purposes of selected parts of the plant, e.g., as a laxative, an anti-infective, or an antiinflammatory drug, have been described already in the sixteenth century BC in the famous Papyrus Ebers (treasured in the Library of the University of Leipzig). Quite in contrast, on the toxicological side, the native plant has become the "poisonous plant 2018" in Germany. As of today, a number of isolated components of the plant/seeds have been characterized, including, e.g., castor oil, ricin, Ricinus communis agglutinin, ricinin, nudiflorin, and several allergenic compounds. This review mainly focuses on the most toxic protein, ricin D, classified as a type 2 ribosome-inactivating protein (RIP2). Ricin is one of the most potent and lethal substances known. It has been considered as an important bioweapon (categorized as a Category B agent (second-highest priority)) and an attractive agent for bioterroristic activities. On the other hand, ricin presents great potential, e.g., as an anticancer agent or in cell-based research, and is even explored in the context of nanoparticle formulations in tumor therapy. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the pharmacology and toxicology-related body of knowledge on ricin. Toxicokinetic/toxicodynamic aspects of ricin poisoning and possibilities for analytical detection and therapeutic use are summarized as well.

PhICl2/NH4SCN‐Mediated Oxidative Regioselective Thiocyanation of Pyridin‐2(1H)‐ones

“…Naturally‐occurring ricinine, [ 19 ] an alkaloidal toxin, has been reported to possess an anticonvulsant activity and expected to be a cognition‐enhancing drug candidate. [ 20 ] Although its clinical application has been hampered by its severe central nervous system stimulating effect, [ 21 ] it still remains a reference scaffold for the development of efficient drugs based on structure modifica‐…”

Tackling Antibiotic Resistance with Compounds of Natural Origin: A Comprehensive Review

“…the Sumerians already used thyme for its beneficial health properties [ 19 ]. The Egyptian Ebers Papyrus dating from around 1500 BC already attributed medicinal properties to plants and spices such as aloe vera, castor bean, garlic, hemp, anise or mustard [ 20 , 21 ]. Other texts such as the Atharva Veda, the Rig Veda and the Sushruta Samhita belonging to Indian Ayurveda, also spoke of the pharmacological properties of plant substances such as turmeric or cannabis [ 22 , 23 ].…”

Ethnopharmacological relevance’s of herbal plants used in cosmetics and toiletries preparations

“…Oil is obtained from the seeds of Ricinus communis (Figure 15) belonging to the family, Euphorbiaceae. It is used as an emollient, in the preparation of lipstick, hair oils, creams and lotions [49].…”