What Plant is More Deadly Than a King Cobra?

There is a common plant that poses a greater threat to humans than the notorious king cobra. This plant is the Castor Oil Plant, also known as Ricinus communis. Despite its common name, the plant does not produce castor oil to harm humans. In fact, castor oil is a highly valued oil that has a range of health benefits. However, the plant also produces a highly toxic substance that can be deadly to humans and animals.

The Danger of Ricin

The Castor Oil Plant produces a protein called ricin, which is one of the deadliest poisons known to man. Ricin is so toxic that it only takes a tiny amount to kill a human. It is estimated that the lethal dose for an adult human is around 1 milligram, which is roughly the size of a few grains of salt. Ricin can cause death by inhibiting protein synthesis in the body, which leads to organ failure and death within days.

A Notorious Assassination Tool

Ricin has gained notoriety as a tool for assassinations, with several high-profile cases reported over the years. In 1978, Bulgarian dissident Georgi Markov was killed in London by a ricin-filled pellet fired from an umbrella. In 2013, letters containing ricin were sent to former U.S. President Barack Obama and other U.S. officials.

Accidental Poisoning

Ricin can also pose a danger to humans who accidentally come into contact with the plant. Castor beans, which are used to make castor oil, contain ricin and should never be consumed in their raw form. Symptoms of ricin poisoning can include nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, diarrhea, and seizures.

Protecting Yourself from Ricin

If you are handling the Castor Oil Plant, it is important to take precautions to protect yourself from ricin poisoning. Wear gloves when handling the plant, as ricin can be absorbed through the skin. If you accidentally ingest the plant or suspect that you have been exposed to ricin, seek medical attention immediately.

The Bottom Line

The Castor Oil Plant may be a common houseplant, but it is a deadly one. Its production of ricin makes it a serious danger to humans and animals alike. If you are thinking of adding this plant to your collection, be sure to take necessary safety measures to protect yourself and others from accidental poisoning.