- CBRNE - Ricin - Ricin is a potent toxin that has potential to be used as an agent of biological warfare and as a weapon of mass destruction (WMD). Ricin is widely available, easily produced, and derived from the beans of the castor plant (Ricinus communis).In attempting to evaluate and discuss agents that can be used as WMDs, the question, ...www.emedicine.com/emerg/topic889.htm