The methanolic extract of <I>Ricinus communis </I>seeds was studied for its <I>in vitro</I> antimicrobial activities through the Agar Dilution Method. The seed extract of the castor oil plant inhibited the growth of <I>Bacillus subtilis</I>,<I> Staphylococcus aureus </I>(ATCC15156), <I>Pseudomonas aeruginosa</I>,<I> Salmonella typhi </I>and <I>Escherichia coli. </I>Also growth of <I>Candida albicans </I>was inhibited by crude extract of <I>Ricinus communis </I>seeds. The Minimum Inhibitory Concentration (MIC) of the extract ranged from 0.723-9 &#956;g mL<SUP>-1</SUP>. The phytochemical analysis of the crude extract of this plant seeds revealed the presence of anthocyanin, vitamins A and C a well as a good source of calcium, iron and vitamin B6. It also contains ricin, sterols, tannins and essential oils and can readily be considered as a healthy food. However, more evidence is needed to really sustain any claim related to their medicinal values. The results of the present study suggest that <I>Ricinus communis </I>can be used in treating diseases caused by the test organisms.