| Scientific name | Ricinus communis L. |
|---|---|
| Other names | Obaluaiê bean, castor bean seed |
| Appearance | Hard, smooth, shiny seed, oval and slightly flattened, with a small light-colored protrusion at one end |
| Odor | Very faint to nonexistent when the seed is whole and dry |
| Color | Gray, brown, beige, or reddish, with marbling and darker spots that vary from seed to seed |
| Parts used | Whole and intact seed only, placed as a ritual object. It must never be opened, pierced, ground, burned, or incorporated into a preparation |
| Origins | Northeastern tropical Africa, mainly Ethiopia, Eritrea, and Somalia; the species is now widespread in many tropical and temperate regions |
| Toxicity level | Very high. The seed contains ricin, a powerful poison released when its shell is chewed, crushed, or broken. Never ingest or handle a damaged seed. Keep in a closed package, out of reach of children and animals. In case of ingestion or accidental damage, contact a poison control center immediately |
