Traditional uses of annatto in American countries. Thus, despite the different culture and traditions among the countries in South and Central America, several of the popular uses of Bixa orellana are the same, for example, antipyretic, aphrodisiac, antidiarrheal, antidiabetic, and insect repellent.
Annatto oil is made from annatto seeds which come from Achiote trees. It can be used in all sorts of cooking to impart a beautiful, deep golden-red color, subtle peppery flavor and earthy aroma into foods.
Due to the antioxidant properties of annatto, it is effective for healing minor skin wounds. The antioxidants facilitate the production of healthy cells and tissues that will reduce scarring and skin damage. When in pain from burns injury or wounds on the skin, or also any skin problem
Bixa orellana L. is reported to have numerous applications in traditional medicine and pharmacological properties such as wound healing, analgesic, hemostatic, and antioxidant activities.
Bixa orellana L. (achiote, orlean, roucou, or annatto) to the Bixaceae family and is a native plant from Central South and North America. Its seeds are used in traditional medicine as a laxative, expectorant, cicatrization. The outer layer of the B. orellana seeds has a color that varies from red to yellow, the concentration of colored compounds is what defines the hue.
Recent studies have demonstrated the isolation of numerous phytochemicals present in B. orellana such as carotenoids, sterols, aliphatic compounds, monoterpenes and sesquiterpenes, flavonoids, polyphenols and tannins, quinones, terpenoids, alkaloids, and triterpenoids. These compounds have a range of pharmacological properties that include antibacterial, antifungal, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, hemostatic, increased gastrointestinal motility, anticonvulsant, analgesic, antidiarrheal, and properties diuretics. Based on these traditional uses, regarding antimicrobial properties, the use of B. orellana has been investigated due to its low toxicity, and low production cost, making it attractive to the industrial sector. Studies on the use of natural compounds with antimicrobial properties favor the development of new technologies, with an accessible market value, improving the quality and safety of food and medicines
PHYSICAL-CHEMICAL DATA AND APPLICATIONS
The annatto oil (Bixina orellana) is reddish in color due to the high content of natural carotenoids (natural pigments). The main pigments are bixin (80%) and norbixin, which are classified as carotenoids and its concentration is six times more than in carrot oil. The high content of unsaturated fatty acids promotes rapid and complete skin absorption.
Annatto oil has been highly beneficial to protect the skin against ultraviolet rays, helps in the healing process, and has antioxidant properties (carotenoids) in capturing free radicals produced in the skin.
Annatto oil is a good emollient and moisturizing agent. Its high content in carotenoids makes it a natural suntan product, it helps to tan and to maintain the tan, giving a more orange tone to the skin. It is indicated for the different cosmetic products and is easily incorporated into creams, creamy lotions, sunscreen, sunscreen, lip balms.
POPULAR USAGE
Traditionally, annatto is used by Brazilian Indians (together with the black coloring seeds of Genipa americana) to make red body paint and to protect the skin against strong sunlight and insect bites. In Brazilian cuisine, the seeds are ground to a powder and used for flavoring and coloring, but to some extent also for their subtle flavor and aroma.
Annatto is beneficial for the high antioxidant property, for ocular and mascular treatments and also digestive and kidney treatments. It also helps to cure wounds and gonorhea and cancer. You can use annatto seeds, powder, and its leaf for skin care, diabetes issues, and hair problems.
Annatto is an orange-red condiment and food coloring derived from the seeds of the achiote tree (Bixa orellana). It is often used to impart a yellow or orange color to foods, but sometimes also for its flavor and aroma. The color of annatto comes from various carotenoid pigments, mainly bixin and norbixin, found in the reddish waxy coating of the seeds.
Annatto Antioxidant Properties
Annatto seeds are high in antioxidant compounds. It is particularly high in antioxidants that benefit skin health, which is one of the reasons it is often added to cosmetic products. Annatto powder paste applied to the skin helps fight wrinkles, sun damage and other signs of aging, while consuming the seeds provides similar benefits from the inside out.
Annatto Seeds Prevent Poor Eyesights
Carotenoids benefit eye health and prevent degenerative eye diseases like macular degeneration and cataracts. This greater carotenoid substance in Annatto seeds will act as antioxidants in ocular system and prevent the growth of cataracts. Greater the proportion of carotenoids, the brighter red annatto seeds are.
Annatto Powder For Healthy Digestive System
Annatto seeds are rich in fiber and able to accelerate the digestion of important nutrients. Annatto sees consumption aids to avoid constipation. The fiber also contributes to reducing cholesterol and regulate diabetes, as it able to optimize the insulin intake and glucose levels in the bloodstream. Annatto is used as a diabetic controlling herb.
Annatto Seeds Accelerates Wound Healing
Due to the antioxidant properties of annatto, it is effective for healing minor skin wounds. The antioxidants facilitate the production of healthy cells and tissues that will reduce scarring and skin damage. When in pain from burns injury or wounds on the skin, or also any skin problem. Annatto seed cream can be spread evenly to hasten the treatment process and lower the looking of the scar and mitigate the pain. Thus, the natural antimicrobial of this cream can try to avoid further infections
Use Annatto Seed For Cancer Prevention
Antioxidants have an extensive role in preventing the growth of cancer. Norbixin, one of the pigments found in annatto seeds is known to be a powerful antioxidant. In recent research, it was found that norbixin has an anti-mutagenic effect on healthy cells exposed to cancerous cells and free radicals, meaning that the seeds may be able to help prevent a variety of different cancer cells from spreading.
Protect and Strengthen the Kidneys
Annatto seeds and leaves have diuretic, antibacterial and bitter properties. In addition to this, annatto seeds and leaves help to guards and enhances the kidneys. Annatto has been widely considered as an aphrodisiac and enhances weight loss, heals fevers, hepatitis, malaria, and dysentery.
Annatto Seeds Strengthens Bones
The higher proportion of Calcium in Annatto seeds assure bone strength and durability. It increases the bone density strength and helps in preventing osteoporosis.
Annatto Powder Reduces Gonorrhea
Annatto power has been proven to be an effective herbal treatment for gonorrhea for decades. For those suffering from this painful condition, using annatto paste either internally or topically can be very effective for clearing up the STD.
Get Relieve From Stomach Issues
Stomach ache, heatburns and stomach cramps can be mitigated by the usage of Annatto seed powder. It can be consumed with tea or warm drinks or even directly to prevent any stomach discomfort.
Prevent Birth Disease
Annatto seeds are rich in folic acids and thus pregnant women are advised to consume annatto to prevent any birth disease in the babies.
Uses of Annatto
Annatto seeds are also useful in beauty care with the antioxidant properties.It is also used to cure fever, oral health, headache, vaginal wash, heat stroke treatment. Annatto seeds are used to cure the effects of snake bites and the essence of the leaves, roots and barks are used as poison antidotes.
Side-Effects & Allergies of Annatto
Annatto seed might increase or decrease the blood sugar levels and thus affect the consumer.Annatto may interfere in the sugar level during and after surgery. It is not known certainly if it is totally safe to be consumed during breast-feeding. Annatto powder is used as food coloring, when used in large amount may cause harmful effects.
Cultivation of Annatto
The annatto tree B. orellana is believed to originate from Brazil. Apt time for raising the annatto nursery is during April-May months. The plant can be propagated by seeds or through stem cuttings. Seedlings are raised in polythene bags containing a mixture of soil, sand and manure. Seeds germinate in about 8-10 days and only one seedling is grown in each bag. When the seeds grow, they are transplanted and irrigated regularly depending on the climate and yield of the crop.
What Is Annatto? Uses, Benefits, and Side Effects
Annatto is a type of food coloring made from the seeds of the achiote tree (Bixa orellana). Though it may not be well known, an estimated 70% of natural food colors are derived from it . In addition to its culinary uses, annatto has long been used in many parts of South and Central America for art, as a cosmetic, and to treat various medical conditions.
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Name: Nativilis Amazonian Urucum Seed Extract Annatto Oil 30 ml (Bixa orellana L.) Emolient for Suncream Lotion | Ultraviolet Rays Protection properties – Brazilian Bio-Natural Skin Tanning Oil - Copaiba Benefits
- Scientific name: Bixa orellana L. (Bixina orellana)
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Cultivation: Wild
- Part used of the plant: Seed
- Production Process: Maceration
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Country of Origin: Brazil
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Major Compounds: Annatto contains numerous plant-based compounds with antioxidant properties, including carotenoids, terpenoids, flavonoids, and tocotrienols ( 2 , 3 , 4 , 5 ). (See the Certification of Analysys)
- Blends well with: Copaiba.
- Source of raw material: Amazonian Rainforest / Brazil
- Batch number: AMO 058 - 002/092023
- Preservatives: Absent
- Number of analysis: 228/09/2023
- Solvent extraction: Refined sunflower oil
- Manufacture date: 06/09/2023
- Origin of the vegetable drugs: Plantation
- Shelf life: 24 Months
- Traceability: Guaranteed
- SAFETY HEALTH: Product harmless, for cosmetic use only. Not suitable for human consumption.
- STORAGE: Should be stored tightly sealed, protected from light and heat.
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Directions for use: Topical use:
Add 10 drops of Nativilis Amazonian Urucum Seed Extract Annatto Oil to 20 ml of natural oil (Argan, Sunflower , Jojoba , Sweet Almond)
Creams / Anti Signs Serum – Dosage 5-20% -
Moisturizing creams – Dosage 3-10%
Blend very well with Copaiba Oil
Obs: 1ml = 25 drops
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Best Use: 36 Months
- Shipping Weight:0.10 kg
- SKU: Annatto-30-5060864591262
- Type: GTIN-13 - Number: 5060864591262
- Volume: 30 ml - Clear Bottle Glass with Tamper Evident Euro Drop Cap
- Dimensions Outer Packaging Recyclable Tube Cardboard Paper Kraft :102 mm (H) x 36 mm (D)
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Safety data: Product for cosmetic use only, not suited for human consumption!
This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.
Avoid contact with eyes, do not ingest. In case of eye contact, flush thoroughly with water, call physician if irritation persists. Keep out of reach of children. - Clear Glass Bottle: Our clear glass bottle is to better appreciate the oil and its beautiful and therapeutic colour. The Recyclable Kraft Tube is to protect the oil from light. The clear glass bottle comes inside the Kraft Tube - The Outer Packaging Recyclable Tube Cardboard Paper Kraft
What is annatto?
Annatto is an orange-red food coloring or condiment made from the seeds of the achiote tree (Bixa orellana), which grows in tropical regions in South and Central America. It has several other names, including achiote, achiotillo, bija, urucum, and atsuete. It’s most commonly used as a natural food coloring, as it imparts a bright color that ranges from yellow to deep orange-red, similar to saffron and turmeric. Its color comes from compounds called carotenoids, which are pigments that are found in the seed’s outer layer and many other fruits and vegetables, such as carrots and tomatoes.
Additionally, annatto is used as a condiment to enhance the flavor of dishes due to its slightly sweet and peppery taste. Its aroma is best described as nutty, peppery, and floral. It comes in several forms, including powder, paste, liquid, and as an essential oil.
Potential health benefits of annatto. This natural food coloring has been associated with various potential health benefits.
Antioxidant properties. Annatto contains numerous plant-based compounds with antioxidant properties, including carotenoids, terpenoids, flavonoids, and tocotrienols.
Antioxidants are compounds that can neutralize potentially harmful molecules known as free radicals, which can damage your cells if their levels rise too high. Research has found that damage caused by high free radical levels is linked to chronic conditions, such as cancers, brain disorders, heart disease, and diabetes (6Trusted Source).
Antimicrobial properties. Research suggests that this food coloring may have antimicrobial properties. In test-tube studies, annatto extracts were shown to inhibit the growth of various bacteria, including Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli. In another test-tube study, annatto killed various fungi, including Aspergillus niger, Neurospora sitophila, and Rhizopus stolonifer. Moreover, adding the dye to bread inhibited the growth of fungi, extending the bread’s shelf life. Similarly, one study found that pork patties that were treated with annatto powder had less microbe growth than untreated patties after 14 days in storage. his research indicates that this food coloring may have a promising role in food preservation.
May have anticancer properties. Early research suggests annatto has cancer-fighting potential. For example, test-tube studies have found that extracts of this food coloring may suppress cancer cell growth and induce cell death in human prostate, pancreas, liver, and skin cancer cells, among other types of cancer. The potential anticancer properties of annatto have been linked to compounds it contains, including the carotenoids bixin and norbixin, and tocotrienols, a type of vitamin E.While these findings are promising, human studies are needed to investigate these effects.
May promote eye health. Annatto is high in carotenoids, which may benefit eye health.
In particular, it’s high in the carotenoids bixin and norbixin, which are found in the outer layer of the seed and help give it its vibrant yellow-to-orange color.
Other potential benefits. Annatto may offer other benefits, including:
May aid heart health. Annatto is a good source of vitamin E compounds called tocotrienols, which may protect against age-related heart issues.
May reduce inflammation. Several test-tube studies indicate that annatto compounds may reduce numerous markers of inflammation
ECOLOGY
The annatto is a small and native tree of the Amazon region. Its popular name comes from the indigenous Tupi word “uru-ku”, which means “red.”
Cultivation of Annatto
The annatto tree B. orellana is originate from Brazil. Apt time for raising the annatto nursery is during April-May months. The plant can be propagated by seeds or through stem cuttings. Seedlings are raised in polythene bags containing a mixture of soil, sand and manure. Seeds germinate in about 8-10 days and only one seedling is grown in each bag. When the seeds grow, they are transplanted and irrigated regularly depending on the climate and yield of the crop.
Safety and side effects
In general, annatto appears to be safe for most people.Though it’s uncommon, some people may experience an allergic reaction to it, especially if they have known allergies to plants in the Bixaceae family. Symptoms include itchiness, swelling, low blood pressure, hives, and stomach pain.In some situations, annatto may trigger symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).
Use Annato Oil Urucum Seed Extract Oil on your body and face
- The ideal is to start sun exposure with higher SPF filters, such as SPF 50. After 15 days you can reduce it, with the expectation of leaving the sunscreen until 30 FPS for a person with light brown skin, for example. Using the filter makes the tan take longer to arrive, but it also lasts longer and also with less risk of flaking and fading.
Don't try to tan your body in just one day - The skin tanning time will depend a lot on the person's original color. In addition, the new tone will only start to appear until 72 hours after the first sun exposure. This is the time required for melanin to be produced and released by cells. It's a process that takes time, so there's no point in overdoing it with sunbathing to try to rush it. It is also important:
- Avoid the times of greatest risk of skin cancer - from 10 am to 4 pm;
- Drink lots of water so you don't get dehydrated;
- Look for the dermatologist to indicate the best sunscreen for your case.
- Care for the tan to last on the skin and prevent peeling
- Using the filter makes the tan take longer to arrive, but it also lasts longer and has less risk of flaking and fading. In addition, the use of moisturizers, warm or cold bath and balanced diet with carotenoids also protect the tan.
The annoying peeling of the skin can also be avoided with plenty of hydration and the application and reapplication of sunscreen. In addition, it is important that tanning is done gradually and not in just one day of exposure.
REFERENCES
FRANCO, C.F.O et al (2002): Urucuzeiro – agronegócio de corantes naturais. 1.ed. João Pessoa: Emepa, SAIA, 2002. .
LORENZI, H. et al (2002): Plantas medicinais no Brasil: nativas e exóticas. Nova Odessa: Plantarum, 2002. .
PRESTON, H.D.; RICKARD, M.D. Extraction and chemistry of annatto. Food Chemistry, v.05, p.47-56, 1980. .
TOCCHINI, L.; MERCADANTE, A. Z. Extração e determinação, por CLAE, de bixina e norbixina em colorífico. Ciênc. Tecnol. Aliment., 2001 .
ZOGHBI, M.G.B. et al (2001) Aroma de flores da Amazônia Belém: Museu Goeldi - Coleção Adolpho Ducke, 2001. .