Tag: Castor beans

Ricin, a potent protein toxin derived from castor beans, can cause severe poisoning with symptoms appearing relatively quickly after exposure. Understanding how long does ricin take to kick in is crucial, as the onset of illness varies significantly based on the method of exposure, including inhalation or ingestion.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) classifies ricin as a Category B bioterrorism agent, highlighting its lethal potential as a poison found naturally in castor beans. While the castor oil plant is the source, it is crucial to understand the distinct difference between the highly toxic seeds and the purified, safe-to-use oil that is extracted and processed.