Final Production by Adoboye Vivian | Health & Lifestyle Correspondent
Castor seed comes from the Castor Oil plant, a hardy shrub native to tropical regions. The seeds are known known for their glossy, spiny pods, tend are rich in oil.
Over the years, castor seeds have been used in traditional medicine, cosmetics, and industrial applications. On the other hand, castor oil is widely valued for its laxative and anti-inflammatory properties.
In Ghana, the castor bean plant is known as Adede Nkruma in Twi, obobo mli in Ga and Dara in Hausa. These plants are commonly found in backyards and on the roadside.
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| common in many backyards |
In some communities in Ghana, the castor seed is used as a family planning method.
Esi (not her real name), a 38- year-old woman, revealed that she once consumed six castor seeds after hearing it could act as a natural contraceptive." I thought it would prevent me from getting pregnant, but within hours I started vomiting and felt sharp pains in my stomach, she recounted.
According to the United State Center for disease Control and prevention, the castor seed contains ricin- a deadly toxin.
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| small but powerful |
A gynecologist doctor Ages Komy explains some of the effects of castor seeds on the reproductive system if they are wrongly used.
The castor bean plant therefore stands at a crossroads between culture and science. While its medicinal and industrial value is undisputed, its seeds remain dangerous for reproductive use. preserving cultural knowledge while prioritizing health and safety is the balance communities must strike. Natural doesn't always mean safe. Many don't realize they are gambling with their lives.
The conversation must begin at homes, in schools, on air. Because silence is costing lives.
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