Annatto By Hawaii Pharm Overview & Drug Interactions

Annatto is a natural food coloring made from the seeds of the achiote tree (Bixa orellana), which is native to Central and South America. The tree is known for its small, red, spiky seeds (annatto) which have a slightly sweet, earthy flavor and are sometimes used as a spice, but more commonly for their coloring properties. The seeds are ground into a powder and used to add a yellow or orange color to foods. It can also be used to dye fabrics and cosmetics. Annatto has also been used in traditional medicine for a variety of purposes, including as a source of antioxidants, as an anti-infective, to increase athletic performance, to decrease muscle soreness, and improve bad breath. There have been several reports of annatto causing allergic reactions in some individuals, so it should be used cautiously.