Castor Oil I.P.

DESCRIPTION

In the pharmaceutical context, Castor Oil I.P. refers to castor oil that meets the quality standards set by the Indian Pharmacopoeia (I.P.). It is a fixed oil obtained by cold expression from the seeds of Ricinus communis (family Euphorbiaceae).

Below is the formal description and technical specification for Castor Oil I.P.

1. General Description

• Appearance: A pale yellowish or almost colorless, transparent, viscid (viscous) liquid.

• Odour: Slight and characteristic.

• Taste: At first bland, but afterwards slightly acrid and usually nauseating.

• Solubility: * Miscible with absolute ethanol, glacial acetic acid, chloroform, and ether.

  • Soluble in ethanol (95%).

  • Practically insoluble in water.

  • Distinctive Property: Unlike most other fixed oils, it is soluble in alcohol but only slightly soluble in light petroleum (petroleum ether).

    Storage & Handling

    • Storage: Should be stored in well-filled, well-closed, light-resistant containers in a cool place (ideally not exceeding 25°C).

    • Safety Note: While the oil is safe for medicinal use, the raw castor seeds contain ricin, a highly toxic protein. This toxin is not oil-soluble and is left behind in the “seed cake” during the cold-pressing process.

     Common Uses

    • Laxative: Acts as a stimulant laxative for treating constipation.

    • Topical: Used as an emollient in creams, lipsticks, and hair oils.

    • Pharmaceutical Aid: Used as a solvent for injections (parenteral preparations) and as a plasticizer in tablet coatings.