Compound Monograph
Ricinoleamide
Ricinoleamide is the amide derivative of ricinoleic acid, the characteristic fatty acid of castor oil.
Where Does It Come From? (1)
Ricinoleamide is a naturally occurring fatty acid amide, found in Castor bean. It is well tolerated orally (low toxicity).
Research & Evidence
Ricinoleamide is the amide of ricinoleic acid, the hydroxylated fatty acid that makes up the bulk of castor oil. As a fatty acid amide it belongs to a class of lipids that includes endogenous signalling molecules, and interest in such compounds centres on their lipid and surfactant properties. Little specific is established about ricinoleamide’s biological effects in humans.
Toxicity & Safety
Ricinoleamide is a fatty acid derivative and is not the toxic protein (ricin) of the castor plant; at the level of available information it is regarded as low in toxicity, though it has not been characterised in detail.