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Castor Bean (Ricinus communis)

The castor bean plant, according to Guinness World Records is the most poisonous common plant in the world. The castor bean plant is native to Mediterranean Basin, Eastern Africa, and India. They are commonly found growing on wasteland. They are also grown as an ornamental plant in other parts of tropical region. The source for castor oil is castor seeds. The castor seeds contain a toxin known as ricin. Overdosing the ricin would cause hypotension, nausea, diarrhea and seizures. Without treatment, death can occur in 3 to 5 days. The cold-pressed castor oil which is available commercially isn’t toxic to humans in normal doses.