Urubuka (Urubuka (Raktaeranda, Rakta, Rubuka, Rubu, Aruka, Aluka, Virasenaka, Vataris, Taruna))

Properties

Anti-inflammatory activity via ricinoleic acid, Laxative effect due to stimulation of intestinal contractions, Antimicrobial action through various phytoconstituents, Cytotoxic effects on cancer cells

Dosage

Oral Dosage: * Castor Oil: The typical oral dose of cold-pressed castor oil is 5-10 ml in the morning on an empty stomach, once every 2-3 days. * Children: Pediatric use of castor oil should only be under professional guidance, with small doses (3-5 ml). * Elderly: The elderly should start with lower doses of 3-5 ml to prevent dehydration. * Capsules: If using capsules, the dosage is typically 1-2 capsules (500 mg each) twice daily with warm water. Topical Dosage: * Warm 10-15 ml of castor oil and gently massage it over joints or affected skin areas daily.

Classical attributes

• Rasa: Madhura (Sweet), Kashaya (Astringent)
• Virya: ["Ushna (Hot)"]
• Vipaka: ["Madhura (Sweet)"]

Benefits

• Rechana (Purgative)
• Vatahara (Vata pacifying)
• Shothahara (Anti-inflammatory)

Traditional uses

• Vibandha (Constipation)
• Udara Roga (Abdominal disorders)
• Shotha (Inflammation)
• Arsha (Hemorrhoids)

Dosha effects

• vata: balancing
• kapha: increasing
• pitta: decreasing

Preparation methods

• Castor Oil (Arandi taila): Expressed from the seeds of the *Ricinus communis* plant. Opt for organic, cold-pressed oil. The oil does not extract the toxic ricin and is considered safer for internal use than the seeds themselves.
• Medicated Ghee (Arandi Ghrita): Prepared with *Ricinus communis* seeds, milk or water decoctions, and other herbs.
• Decoction: A decoction can be made using 20-25 grams of dried roots.
• External Application - Castor leaves: Castor leaves can be dipped in sesame oil, heated, and applied to injuries, arthritis, and painful joints.
• External Application - Castor leaf and root paste: A paste of castor leaf and root can be made with sesame or castor oil, heated slightly, and applied externally to relieve migraine, low back ache, sciatica pain, arthritis pain, mastitis, and skin disorders.
• External Application - Castor oil packs: Castor oil packs can be made by soaking a flannel in warmed castor oil and applying it to the affected area.

Contraindications

• Pregnancy: Oral use is contraindicated due to the potential for uterine stimulation.
• Lactation: Breastfeeding women should avoid internal use.
• Children: Use in children under 5 years should be done only under professional supervision. Administer with caution to children under 12 years of age.
• Gastrointestinal Issues: Avoid or use with caution if you have diarrhea or a history of dehydration. Use with caution if you are suffering from kidney, bladder, bile duct, or intestine infections.
• Low blood pressure: Eranda (mainly Eranda oil) may result in low blood pressure.
• Overuse can cause abdominal cramps and dehydration.
• Long-term use can lead to losses of electrolytes.
• Those with a history of diarrhea or dehydration must use caution.

Side effects

• Castor seeds contain ricin, a poisonous compound.
• Symptoms of ricin poisoning may include vomiting, colic, hemorrhagic gastroenteritis, stupor, convulsions, edema, and circulatory collapse.
• May cause diarrhea.
• Pregnant women should avoid internal use due to the risk of uterine stimulation.
• Use with caution in children and the elderly.

Interactions

• No drug-herb interactions are currently known. However, it is always best to consult with a healthcare professional before using any herbal remedy, especially if you are taking other medications or have any underlying health conditions.

Clinical evidence

Meta-analyses of up to 15 RCTs and databases tracking 20+ RCTs show Ricinus communis, particularly castor oil, is effective as a laxative and anti-inflammatory agent. Studies also indicate potential anticancer and antimicrobial properties. However, safety considerations related to ricin content must be carefully managed.

Ayurvedic karmas

• Rechana (Purgative)
• Vatahara (Vata pacifying)
• Shothahara (Anti-inflammatory)

Classical clinical indications

• Vibandha (Constipation)
• Udara Roga (Abdominal disorders)
• Shotha (Inflammation)
• Arsha (Hemorrhoids)