Family: Euphorbiaceae
Synonyms: Curcas purgans

Jatropha curcus is a drought-resistant perennial variety of castor, which grows well in marginal/poor soil. It is easy to establish, grows relatively fast and survives for 50 years. It is wild in nature and propagates easily at any place, climate and temperature conditions.
Jatropha grows wild in many areas of India and can thrive on infertile soil. A good crop of Jatropha can be obtained with little effort. Production of seeds usually takes place within 2 to 5 years depending on the soil quality and rainfall. Jatropha seeds consist of about 60 percent oil; which can be transformed into bio-diesel fuel through the process of esterification.
The oil can be combusted as fuel without being refined. It burns with clear smoke-free flame. It has also been tested successfully as fuel for simple diesel engine. The by-products are press cake, which are a good source of organic fertilizer. The oil also contains insecticide. 
Medically it is used for diseases like cancer, piles, snakebite, paralysis, dropsy, etc. Read More..