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capsules burst and the seeds can be removed readily 
by beating out the heads. If the plants are allowed 
to become overripe before harvesting, the capsules 
will burst in the field with loss of seed. 
Yields . — The yield is somewhat variable, from 500 
to 800 lbs. per acre being considered a fair average 
under ordinary conditions. 
Extraction of Oil . — -The seed contains from 45 to 
55 per cent, of oil, which is used largely for edible 
and medicinal purposes. The best quality oil is 
obtained by cold pressing, that obtained by hot 
pressing being used chiefly in soap making. The 
residue is used either as a feeding stuff or fertiliser. 
The current price (Sept. 1923) for Gingelly seed is 
£22 per ton. 
Castor Oil. ( Ricinus communis ). — This is a tall 
growing shrub, the seeds of which 
are used for the preparation of the castor oil of 
commerce. There are numerous varieties, showing 
considerable differences both in the colour and size 
of the seed. It is a somewhat exhausting crop and 
requires a fairly rich soil, preferably low-lying 
alluvial flats. The plants begin to produce seed 
about 4 to 5 months from sowing, the harvest con- 
tinuing for a few months dependent on both variety 
and season. The yield is very variable and a crop 
of from 500 to 1,000 lbs. of seed per acre may be 
obtained. 
The seeds contain from 45 to 50 per cent, of oil 
which is put to a variety of uses, being employed 
in the manufacture of soaps and lubricants, the 
dyeing and leather industries. In addition, castor 
oil is well-known for its medicinal properties, for 
