10 Amazing Health Benefits of Annatto (Bixa Orellana)

Annatto (Bixa Orellana) is a tree native to the tropics of the New World, is the only species in the family Bixaceae. Annatto has ovate leaves that are 8 to 18 cm (3 to 7 inches) long and rose-pink flowers about 5 cm (2 inches) wide. It can grow up to 9 meters (30 feet) tall.

The 5 cm (2 inches) long, brown fruits produce a reddish or yellowish powder used as a food coloring for butter, cheese, and oleomargarine. Tropical and subtropical regions of the world are where the plant is grown.

Bixa Orellana is a taprooted, perennial shrub or small tree with big, eye-catching pink flowers that may grow up to 3 meters tall and can be either evergreen or deciduous.

The crown is round. The trunk’s diameter can reach 10 cm. The bark can be light to dark brown and can occasionally be fissured and lenticellate. The immature branches are greenish and rusty-dusty scaly; as they mature, they turn dark brown and become ringed at the nodes.

The leaves are simple, whole, and petiolated, and they are arranged spirally. The leaf blade is ovate-shaped and measures 5–25 cm in length by 4–16 cm wide. The flowers are pentamerous, bisexual, and have a diameter of 4–7 cm. They are pinkish, whitish, or purplish-tinged. The group is near the tips of the shoots. It is the fruits

Chemicals in annatto may function as antioxidants or destroy germs. Additionally, some of the compounds in annatto may alter how the body utilizes sugar. Medicine is made from the seed, leaf, and root.

The use of annatto for illnesses such as diabetes, stomach issues, skin issues, benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), and enlarged prostate is not well supported by scientific research.

It is most frequently used as a natural food coloring because it imparts a vivid color that ranges from deep orange-red to yellow, much like saffron and turmeric.

The pigments known as carotenoids, which are also present in many other fruits and vegetables like carrots and tomatoes, are what give it its color.

Due to its mildly sweet and peppery flavor, annatto is also used as a condiment to improve the flavor of food. Nutty, peppery, and floral best describe its aroma.

It is available as an essential oil, liquid, paste, powder, and many other variations.

Antioxidants like cis-bixin, carotenoids, and vitamin A are abundant in annatto.
Minerals like calcium, salt, and iron are also present.

It might include a significant amount of dietary fiber. This plant substance’s potency is due to the high concentration of tocotrienols, which resemble vitamin E in both effects and structure.

Because of its potent pigmentation, annatto is a natural dye that can range in color from yellow to deep orange to red and has many uses in cosmetics. Certain regions of the world also use it as a condiment.

The flavor is somewhat peppery, and the aroma is flowery and nutty. Annatto is a traditional “superfood” that has been used for thousands of years in the cultures of the Caribbean and Central America to treat a variety of ailments, from minor illnesses to those that could be fatal.

10 Health Benefits of Annatto (Bixa Ollerena)

1. Aids Healthy Digestion

Both the edible leaves of the achiote plant and the possibly large amount of fiber present in annatto seeds are beneficial for digestion. It might encourage effective nutrient absorption and gastrointestinal lubrication.

2. For Strong And Healthy Bone

In order to maintain strength and durability as you age and to supplement your bone mineral density, annatto contains a substantial amount of calcium. It might also aid in osteoporosis prevention.

3. Helps Prevent Birth Defect

An impressive amount of folic acid, or folate, is likely present in annatto. While this vitamin has many advantages, preventing neural tube defects in developing children may be the most crucial. Pregnant women are to increase their folic acid intake to prevent the disorder.

4. Skin Care

An important factor in annatto’s popularity for skin care is the potential presence of tocotrienols, which function as antioxidants.

If you’ve been seeking for a skincare product with anti-aging properties, annatto paste prepared from the seeds can be applied topically to perhaps lessen the appearance of wrinkles, blemishes, and other flaws as well as tighten the skin and make it look younger.

5. Anticancer

One of the pigments included in annatto seeds, norbixin, is well known for its potent antioxidant properties. Recent studies have demonstrated that norbixin has a definite anti-mutagenic impact on healthy cells exposed to malignant cells and free radicals, suggesting that the seeds may be able to aid in the prevention of the spread of a variety of malignancies.

Annatto also known as Bixa Orellana is a potential substitute for cancer prevention methods, according to a study by a Brazilian research team that was published in the Human and Experimental Toxicology Journal, albeit more data and research are required to support the claim.

6. May Treat Gonorrhea

For millennia, annatto has been used as a successful natural remedy for gonorrhea. Using its paste topically or internally can be quite useful for those with any uncomfortable and embarrassment-inducing conditions to get rid of that specific STD.

7. May Relieve Stomach Issues

It’s common practice to eat annatto to soothe an upset stomach. Additionally, it has stomachic properties used to alleviate heartburn and discomfort that can be brought on by anything from viral infections to overindulging in spicy foods.

8. May Heal Wounds

Applying annatto seed paste might hasten the healing process if you have experienced skin burns or wounds or are experiencing any form of skin irritation. Additionally, it might lessen the visibility of scars. Its inherent antibacterial properties can also aid in the prevention of illnesses.

9. Eye Care

The potentially high carotenoid content of annatto may work as antioxidants in your ocular system and maybe fend off macular degeneration and cataract development, preserving your eyesight for years.

10. Microbial Properties

Because of its potent antioxidants, annatto has the ability to fight a variety of bacteria and diseases in the body. Additionally, it may be particularly helpful against several foodborne illnesses.

Nutritional value of Annatto (Bixa Orellana)

1. Protein: Annatto seeds contain approximately 14.6 grams per 100 grams dry matter, which supports muscle maintenance, immune response, and enzymatic functions in the body.

2. Carbohydrates: With around 32.6 grams of starch per 100 grams dry matter, plus other carbs contributing to total energy content, these provide a source of sustained energy and aid in metabolic processes.

3. Dietary Fiber: The seeds have 43.4 grams of neutral detergent fiber per 100 grams dry matter, promoting digestive health, regulating cholesterol levels, and supporting gut microbiota.

4. Fat: Containing 2.4 grams per 100 grams dry matter, the low fat content includes essential lipids that facilitate nutrient absorption and cell structure integrity.

5. Ash (Minerals): At 5.5 grams per 100 grams dry matter, this indicates a rich mineral profile essential for bone health, fluid balance, and various physiological reactions.

6. Calcium: With 0.14 grams per 100 grams dry matter, calcium contributes to bone and teeth strength, muscle function, and nerve transmission.

7. Phosphorus: Providing 0.43 grams per 100 grams dry matter, phosphorus works with calcium for skeletal health, energy production, and cellular repair.

8. Potassium: At 1.1 grams per 100 grams dry matter, potassium helps maintain electrolyte balance, supports heart rhythm, and aids in muscle contractions.

9. Carotenoids: Rich in bixin and norbixin, these antioxidants protect against oxidative stress, support eye health, and may reduce inflammation.

10. Tocotrienols: As a form of vitamin E, tocotrienols in annatto offer antioxidant benefits, potentially improving heart health and protecting against cellular damage.

Scientific Evidence and Case Studies on Annatto (Bixa Orellana)

1. Giorgi et al. (2013): Ethanolic seed extracts from Brazilian Amazon annatto demonstrated antioxidant activity in DPPH assays at 0.1 g/L and mosquito repellent effects against Aedes aegypti at 18.2 mg/mL, highlighting benefits for oxidative stress reduction and insect protection. (Giorgi, A., De Marinis, P., Granelli, G., Chiesa, L. M., & Panseri, S. (2013). Secondary metabolite profile, antioxidant capacity, and mosquito repellent activity of Bixa orellana from Brazilian Amazon region. Journal of Chemistry, 2013, Article 409826.)

2. Abayomi et al. (2014): In vitro studies showed annatto seed extract exhibited antioxidant activity at concentrations of 0.25 to 2.5 μg/mL, proving potential in combating free radicals and related health issues. (Abayomi, M., Adebayo, A. S., Bennett, D., Porter, R., Shelly-Campbell, J., Joseph, J., & Badal, S. (2014). In vitro antioxidant activity of Bixa orellana (annatto) seed extract. Journal of Applied Pharmaceutical Science, 4(2), 101–106.)

3. Pacheco et al. (2019): Oral administration of bixin from annatto seeds (15–30 mg/kg) in rats reduced carrageenan-induced paw edema and neutrophil migration by inhibiting myeloperoxidase, demonstrating anti-inflammatory benefits. (Pacheco, F. I., Bitencourt, M. A. O., Somacal, S., Emanuelli, T., & Roehrs, M. (2019). Anti-inflammatory effects of bixin in animal model of inflammation. Inflammation, 42(3), 1088–1096.)

4. Tao et al. (2015): In mice, intraperitoneal bixin (200 mg/kg) downregulated UV-induced inflammatory markers, reduced epidermal thickness, and mitigated oxidative DNA damage, supporting skin protection and anti-inflammatory effects. (Tao, S., Park, S. L., Rojo de la Vega, M., Zhang, D. D., & Wondrak, G. T. (2015). Systemic administration of the apocarotenoid bixin protects skin against solar UV-induced damage through activation of Nrf2. Free Radical Biology and Medicine, 89, 690–700.)

5. Somacal et al. (2015): In hypercholesterolemic rabbits, oral bixin (10–30 mg/kg for 60 days) lowered oxidative stress, inflammatory responses, and improved lipid profiles, indicating cardiovascular health benefits. (Somacal, S., Figueiredo, C. G., Quatrin, A., Ruviaro, A. R., Conte, L., Augusti, P. R., Roehrs, M., Danesi, G. L., Somacal, S., & Emanuelli, T. (2015). The antiatherogenic effect of bixin in hypercholesterolemic rabbits is associated to the improvement of lipid profile and to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. Molecular and Cellular Biochemistry, 403(1–2), 243–253.)

Frequently Asked Questions About Annatto (Bixa Orellana)

1. What is Annatto (Bixa orellana)? It is a tropical shrub whose seeds provide a natural red-orange dye and flavoring, used in food, cosmetics, and traditional medicine.

2. What are the main health benefits of annatto? It offers antioxidant, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and potential anticancer effects, supporting eye, heart, and skin health.

3. How can annatto be used? As a food coloring in dishes, in supplements for its bioactive compounds, or topically in cosmetics for skin protection.

4. Are there any side effects of annatto? Generally safe, but may cause allergic reactions like hives or stomach pain in sensitive individuals; avoid high doses if pregnant.

5. Can annatto help with inflammation? Yes, compounds like bixin reduce inflammatory markers, as shown in animal studies for conditions like edema.

6. Is annatto good for the eyes? Its carotenoids may protect against age-related macular degeneration by reducing harmful compound accumulation.

7. What nutrients are in annatto seeds? They include protein, fiber, minerals like potassium and calcium, plus antioxidants such as bixin and tocotrienols.

8. Does annatto have antimicrobial properties? Extracts inhibit bacteria and fungi growth, potentially extending food shelf life and fighting infections.

9. Can annatto support heart health? Tocotrienols and anti-inflammatory effects may improve lipid profiles and reduce oxidative stress.

10. Where is annatto commonly found? Native to Central and South America, it’s cultivated in tropical regions for its seeds used globally in various products.

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Disclaimer: This article is for educational and informational purposes only. The health benefits described are based on scientific research and traditional knowledge. They are not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a healthcare professional before using any herb or natural remedy for medical purposes.