Description
Source: Mountain Rose Herbs
USDA Organic, Fair Trade, + Kosher
Origin: India
COMMON NAME
Standardized: annatto
Other: achiote, lipstick tree
BOTANICAL NAME
Bixa orellana L.
Plant Family: Bixaceae
OVERVIEW
INTRODUCTION
Annatto is a South and Central American herb producing small, dark, red seeds with a faint, flowery odor. The tree was introduced to the Philippines during its Spanish period. In 1540, the Spanish mercenary Gonzalo Pizarro left the plunder of the Incan Empire on rumors that groves of cinnamon trees were to be found in the Amazon basin. Almost his entire force perished in the jungle. He escaped by sailing down the Amazon, his primary plunder the annatto berries he found instead of cinnamon.
CONSTITUENTS
The intense red color of the seed is due to bixin in the seed coat. Annatto also contains very high concentrations of carotenoids, chemicals in the same class as alpha- and beta-carotene.
PARTS USED
Dried seed milled into powder.
TYPICAL PREPARATIONS
Annatto seed powder can be used in seasoning blends, cosmetics, and as a dye.
SUMMARY
Annatto has been used for centuries to keep food from spoiling.
PRECAUTIONS
No known precautions.
We recommend that you consult with a qualified healthcare practitioner before using herbal products, particularly if you are pregnant, nursing, or on any medications.
This information has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. For educational purposes only.
