Physic Nut
Jatropha curcas
| Family | Euphorbiaceae |
|---|---|
| Sanskrit | Kananaeranda |
| हिंदी | रतनजोत |
| മലയാളം | കാട്ടാവണക്ക് |
| Parts used | seed oil, latex, leaf |
Poisonous without classical processing — not offered — Seeds poisonous (curcin)
Physic nut is a semi-evergreen shrub or small tree of the spurge family with lobed leaves, small greenish-yellow flowers and capsules holding black oily seeds. Native to the American tropics, it is now naturalised across India, including Kerala, where it is widely grown as a living fence.
The seed oil, latex and leaves have been used in folk practice, including fresh twigs as tooth-cleaning sticks and the latex in external applications. The seeds contain curcin and other toxins and are poisonous. It is used only after classical purification under qualified supervision and never eaten.
Articles are for general information about Ayurveda and personal care and are not medical advice. For any health condition, please see a qualified doctor.
