Get Your Personalized Supplement StackSupplement Stack Quiz

Organic Annatto extract

Also known as: Annatto, Achiote, Bixa orellana

Overview

Annatto, derived from the seeds of *Bixa orellana*, is a natural dye and supplement ingredient native to Central and South America. It's primarily recognized for its carotenoid pigment, bixin, and is widely used as a natural food coloring and in cosmetics. Annatto is gaining attention for its potential health benefits, mainly attributed to its antioxidant properties. The plant is rich in carotenoids, particularly bixin and norbixin, which contribute to its color and biological activities. Research on annatto is moderately mature, with increasing interest in its biomedical applications. However, most evidence is based on in vitro and in vivo studies, with limited human clinical trials to fully validate its effects and safety.

Benefits

Annatto has demonstrated antioxidant, antimicrobial, and potential anti-inflammatory effects in various studies. These effects are primarily attributed to its carotenoid content, which can scavenge free radicals and disrupt microbial cell membranes. Some research suggests benefits in wound healing and protection against oxidative stress. While these findings are promising, the evidence is largely based on in vitro and in vivo studies. Human clinical trials are needed to confirm these benefits and determine the specific effect sizes and clinical significance. Annatto may be beneficial for individuals seeking natural antioxidants or antimicrobial agents, but more research is required to establish its efficacy and safety for specific health conditions.

How it works

Annatto's antioxidant activity is primarily attributed to its ability to scavenge free radicals, reducing oxidative stress in the body. Its antimicrobial effects may involve disrupting microbial cell membranes, inhibiting the growth of bacteria and fungi. Annatto may interact with immune and oxidative stress pathways, influencing the body's response to inflammation and infection. However, the specific molecular targets and mechanisms of action are not yet well-defined. Limited data is available on the absorption and bioavailability of annatto compounds in humans, which further complicates understanding its precise effects.

Side effects

Annatto is generally considered safe when used as a food coloring, but the long-term effects of supplementation are not well-studied. Common side effects are not well-documented, but potential adverse reactions may include allergic reactions or gastrointestinal upset in sensitive individuals. Rare side effects have not been reported. Drug interactions are not well-studied, and no specific contraindications have been established. However, pregnant or breastfeeding women should consult healthcare providers before using annatto as a supplement due to limited safety data in these populations. Further research is needed to fully assess the safety profile of annatto supplementation and identify any potential risks.

Dosage

Due to limited human studies, a minimum effective dose, optimal dosage ranges, and maximum safe dose for annatto supplementation have not been established. Timing considerations and form-specific recommendations are also not well-defined. Annatto is available in various forms, including extracts and powders, but the absorption factors for these different forms are not well-studied. It is important to consult with a healthcare provider before using annatto as a supplement to determine an appropriate dosage and ensure safety. More research is needed to establish clear dosing guidelines and safety thresholds for annatto supplementation.

FAQs

Is annatto safe to take as a supplement?

Annatto is generally considered safe as a food coloring, but long-term supplementation effects are unknown. Consult a healthcare provider before using it as a supplement.

What are the potential benefits of annatto?

Annatto may offer antioxidant and antimicrobial benefits, but more research is needed to confirm these effects in humans.

How should I take annatto?

Dosage and timing are not well-established. Consult a healthcare provider for personalized recommendations before starting supplementation.

Are there any side effects associated with annatto?

Potential side effects may include allergic reactions or gastrointestinal upset, but these are not well-documented. Discontinue use if adverse effects occur.

Research Sources

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11510392/ – This systematic review examines annatto-based nanostructures and their potential for biomedical applications. The review includes nine studies and highlights the antioxidant, antimicrobial, and immunomodulatory effects observed in vitro and in vivo. The authors note the limited number of human clinical trials, suggesting a need for further research to validate these findings in humans.
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4856788/ – This review provides a comprehensive overview of the phytochemistry and biological activities of annatto. It highlights annatto's antioxidant, antimicrobial, and potential anti-inflammatory activities. The review emphasizes the need for more human data to fully understand and confirm these effects.
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0378874121011910 – This scoping review focuses on the antimicrobial activity of annatto against various bacteria and fungi. The review suggests annatto's potential as an antimicrobial agent. The authors acknowledge the limited clinical data and call for further research to explore its therapeutic applications.
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11210471/ – This article discusses the antioxidant properties of annatto extracts. It details the mechanisms by which annatto compounds, particularly carotenoids, scavenge free radicals and reduce oxidative stress. The study emphasizes the potential of annatto as a natural antioxidant source.
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5018507/ – This research explores the potential anti-inflammatory effects of annatto extracts. The study investigates the impact of annatto compounds on inflammatory pathways and markers. The findings suggest that annatto may have a role in reducing inflammation, but further research is needed to confirm these effects in humans.