Ricin can be absorbed through abraded skin or through wounds, but probably not through intact skin, unless it is carried in a solvent that enhances absorption.

ROUTES OF EXPOSURE: Ricin can be absorbed into the body through ingestion, inhalation, or eye contact.

Agricultural: If ricin is released into the air as fine particles (aerosol), it has the potential to contaminate agricultural products.

Outdoor Air: Ricin can be released into outdoor air as fine particles (aerosol).

Food: Ricin can be used to contaminate food.Water: Ricin can be used to contaminate water.Indoor Air: Ricin can be released into indoor air as fine particles (aerosol).Exposure to even a small amount of ricin may be fatal. Ricin may cause severe allergic reactions. Ricin causes toxicity by inhibiting the formation (synthesis) of proteins in the cells of the exposed individual.

It is easily extracted from the castor bean meal that remains as a by-product of castor oil production.

DESCRIPTION: Ricin is an extremely toxic plant protein derived from the seeds of the castor bean plant ( Ricinus communis).

Can be prepared in liquid or crystalline form.

Ricin poisoning antidote