Convolvulus arvensis vs Ricinus communis

Side-by-side comparison of medicinal herbs

Herb

Convolvulus arvensis

Digestive

Digestive

Convolvulus arvensis

❌ Not recommended in pregnancy

❌ Not recommended while nursing

Ricinus communis

❌ Not recommended in pregnancy

❌ Not recommended while nursing

Description

Widespread weed; roots used in folk medicine for gallbladder conditions and as mild laxative.

Tropical shrub whose seeds yield castor oil (laxative) and deadly ricin toxin; wide traditional use.

Active Compounds

convolvulin, scopoletin, caffeic acid, flavonoids, tannins

ricinoleic acid, ricin (toxic in seeds), ricinine, fatty acids

Traditional Uses

gallbladder conditions, constipation, liver complaints, wound healing

constipation, skin conditions, hair growth, labor induction, inflammation

Modern Uses

choleretic, mild laxative, anti-inflammatory

castor oil laxative, skin moisturizer, hair growth stimulation, anti-inflammatory

Adult Dosage

Root tea 2-3g 2x/day

Castor oil: 15-60ml as laxative; topical for skin/hair

Contraindications

pregnancy, IBD, intestinal obstruction

bowel obstruction, pregnancy (avoid as laxative), seeds ingestion

Side Effects

GI cramping, laxative effect

GI cramping, diarrhea, seed ingestion causes ricin poisoning

Drug Interactions

0 known interactions

Reviewed by: HerbAlly Editorial Team, Medical herbalists and healthcare professionals

Sources: WHO Monographs · NCCIH · PubMed · Commission E