Ricinus communis,
Euphorbiaceae
Introduction
Eranda, commonly known as the Castor Plant, is one of the most important medicinal plants in Ayurveda. It is mainly valued for its strong Vata-balancing, pain-relieving, and detoxifying properties.
In Ayurvedic medicine, Eranda oil and roots are widely used in joint disorders, paralysis, digestive problems, and chronic inflammation. It is also an important ingredient in many classical Ayurvedic formulations.
Botanical Information
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Ricinus communis |
| Family | Euphorbiaceae |
| Common Names | Eranda, Castor Plant, Arandi |
| Plant Type | Shrub/Small Tree |
| Height | 2–5 meters |
| Habitat | Tropical and Subtropical Regions |
The plant has large palmate leaves and produces seeds rich in medicinal oil.
Ayurvedic Properties of Eranda
| Property | Description |
|---|---|
| Rasa (Taste) | Sweet, Astringent |
| Guna (Quality) | Heavy, Oily |
| Virya (Potency) | Hot |
| Vipaka | Sweet |
| Dosha Effect | Balances Vata & Kapha |
Because of its warming and oily nature, Eranda is especially effective in Vata disorders.
Health Benefits of Eranda
1. Best Herb for Joint Pain and Arthritis
Eranda is highly beneficial in:
- Arthritis
- Back pain
- Sciatica
- Knee pain
- Joint stiffness
Castor oil massage reduces pain and improves mobility.
2. Helps in Paralysis and Nerve Disorders
Eranda strengthens nerves and muscles. It is used in:
- Facial paralysis
- Weak limbs
- Nervous weakness
- Muscle stiffness
3. Improves Digestion and Relieves Constipation
Castor oil works as a natural laxative and helps in:
- Chronic constipation
- Gas and bloating
- Weak digestion
- Intestinal cleansing
4. Reduces Swelling and Inflammation
Eranda has strong anti-inflammatory properties. It helps in:
- Joint swelling
- Muscle inflammation
- Gout
- Edema
5. Supports Detoxification
Eranda helps remove toxins from the body through controlled purgation therapy in Ayurveda (Virechana).
6. Improves Skin and Hair Health
Castor oil is useful for:
- Dry skin
- Cracked heels
- Hair fall
- Dandruff
- Eyebrow and eyelash growth
7. Supports Reproductive and Postnatal Health
In traditional practice, Eranda oil is sometimes used for uterine cleansing and postnatal recovery under supervision.
Uses of Eranda in Ayurveda
1. Castor Oil (Eranda Taila)
Most commonly used part.
Used for:
- Constipation
- Joint massage
- Skin care
2. Root Decoction
Prepared from roots.
Used for:
- Arthritis
- Paralysis
- Back pain
3. Leaf Paste
Used externally for swelling and pain.
4. Medicated Oils
Used in Panchakarma and massage therapies.
Dosage of Eranda
| Form | Dosage |
|---|---|
| Castor Oil | 5–10 ml (with warm milk/water) |
| Root Decoction | 20–40 ml |
| Powder | 1–2 grams |
| Leaf Paste | External use |
⚠️ Always consult an Ayurvedic doctor before internal use.
Side Effects of Eranda
Excessive use may cause:
- Severe diarrhea
- Dehydration
- Abdominal cramps
- Weakness
- Electrolyte imbalance
Raw seeds are poisonous and should never be consumed.
Precautions
- Never eat raw castor seeds
- Avoid during pregnancy
- Do not use long-term without guidance
- Use carefully in weak patients
- Not for children without medical advice
Always use purified medicinal-grade castor oil.
How to Identify Eranda Plant
- Large, shiny, star-shaped leaves
- Hollow green or reddish stem
- Spiny seed capsules
- Oval shiny seeds
- Fast-growing shrub
Very easy to identify in open fields.
Active Compounds (Phytochemicals)
Eranda contains:
- Ricinoleic acid
- Alkaloids
- Flavonoids
- Fatty acids
- Proteins
Ricinoleic acid gives castor oil its strong medicinal value.
Home Remedies Using Eranda
For Constipation
Take 1 teaspoon castor oil with warm milk at night (occasionally).
For Joint Pain
Massage warm castor oil daily.
For Hair Growth
Apply castor oil on scalp twice a week.
For Cracked Heels
Apply oil at night and wear socks.
Importance in Panchakarma
Eranda is widely used in:
- Virechana (Purgation Therapy)
- Basti (Enema Therapy)
- Abhyanga (Oil Massage)
It helps remove deep-rooted toxins from the body.
Conclusion
Eranda (Ricinus communis) is a powerful Ayurvedic medicinal plant mainly used for joint pain, paralysis, constipation, detoxification, and skin care. Its oil is one of the most important natural remedies for Vata disorders.
When used correctly and under expert guidance, Eranda provides safe and long-lasting health benefits.
Vernacular names
Assamese : Eda, Era
Bengali : Bherenda
English : Castor oil plant
Gujrati : Erandio, Erando
Hindi : Arand, Erand, Andi, Rend
Kannada : Haralu, Oudala gida
Kashmiri : Aran, Banangir
Malayalam : Avanakku
Marathi : Erand
Oriya : Jada, Gaba
Punjabi : Arind
Tamil : Amanakku
Telugu : Amudapu veru
Urdu : Bedanjir, Arand
