In vitro activity of Ricinus communis (castor oil) on cysts of Entamoeba histolytica

Abstract

Background: No descriptions in scientific literature exist about anti Entamoeba histolytica effect of Ricinus communis although is used by traditional medicine in Latin America for treatment or prophylaxis of intestinal amebiasis. Purpose: To evaluate the in vitro cysticidal effect of castor oil extracts available as regulated phytotherapeutic products against E. histolytica. Study design: In vitro evaluation of the cysticidal effect against E. histolytica of R. communis oil extracts. Methods: We analyzed the effects of three commercial castor oil compounds on the viability and morphology of E. histolytica cysts. Results: The three samples had significant cysticidal effects and altered cyst morphology after 10 h of exposure. The effective dose 50 % (EC50) ranged between 35 and 50 μg/ml, with a range of estimated EC50 25 and 35 μg/ml in the human intestine in vivo. Conclusion: Castor oil pharmaceutical products have good in vitro anti-E. histolytica, which requires clinical trials to confirm its anti-amoebic effect.

Keywords

• Ricinus communis
• Castor oil
• Anti-amoebic
• Natural compounds
• Phytotherapy
• Entamoeba histolytica