Herb guide › Achiote (Annatto Seed)
Achiote (Annatto Seed)
A tropical evergreen shrub or small tree producing distinctive red-orange seeds enclosed inside prickly reddish pods. The seeds are small, hard, and intensely colored, with a mild earthy, peppery, slightly nutty flavor. When steeped, they produce a yellow-orange to reddish-orange infusion. Bixa orellana is widely used as a culinary coloring and seasoning plant.
Traditionally used for
Digestive discomfort, Inflammation
Potential benefits
Antioxidant support, traditional digestive aid, source of natural carotenoid pigments
Ingredients
Achiote (Annatto Seed)
Origin
Central and South America
How it is traditionally prepared
Lightly crush ½–1 tsp seeds per 8–12 oz water, simmer 10 minutes, 1 cup daily. Culinary use is preferred over concentrated preparations.
Cautions and who should avoid it
Food amounts are generally well tolerated. Avoid concentrated medicinal preparations during pregnancy and breastfeeding because safety data are limited. May cause digestive upset in sensitive individuals.
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