Get Your Personalized Supplement StackSupplement Stack Quiz

Annatto Seed Extract

Also known as: Annatto, Achiote, Bixa orellana

Overview

Annatto, derived from the seeds of the *Bixa orellana* plant native to Central and South America, is traditionally used as a natural dye and food coloring. It contains carotenoids like bixin and norbixin, responsible for its vibrant color and potential health benefits. Annatto is also explored as a dietary supplement due to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Research indicates potential applications in biomedicine, particularly when nanostructured. While systematic reviews cover annatto's phytochemistry and biological activities, more high-quality clinical trials are needed to confirm the specific benefits of annatto seed extract. It is available in various forms, including whole seeds, powders, and extracts, and is incorporated into foods, cosmetics, and supplements.

Benefits

Annatto has demonstrated antioxidant, antimicrobial, and immunomodulatory effects in various studies, especially when nanostructured. Limited evidence suggests potential benefits in improving satiety markers and cardiovascular health risk factors. Annatto-enriched foods may have positive effects on healthy adults, but more research is needed to confirm these findings. The active compounds, bixin and norbixin, may contribute to these effects. However, high-quality clinical trials specifically on annatto seed extract are still limited, and quantitative data on effect sizes and clinical significance are scarce. Further research is needed to fully understand the time course of benefits and specific population benefits.

How it works

Annatto's active compounds, primarily bixin and norbixin, are believed to exert their effects through interactions with biological pathways related to inflammation and oxidative stress. These compounds may influence immune response and tissue health due to their antioxidant properties. While specific molecular targets are not well-defined for annatto seed extract, it is suggested that they modulate inflammatory responses and protect against oxidative damage. The bioavailability of annatto compounds can vary based on the form and preparation method, affecting its overall efficacy.

Side effects

Annatto is generally considered safe when used as a food coloring or in traditional applications. However, the safety profile of high doses or prolonged use of annatto seed extract is not well-documented. Potential side effects, though rare, may include allergic reactions or gastrointestinal disturbances. No significant drug interactions or contraindications have been specifically noted for annatto seed extract. Pregnant or breastfeeding women should consult healthcare providers before using annatto seed extract as a supplement. Due to limited research, caution is advised when considering annatto seed extract for supplemental use.

Dosage

There is no established minimum effective dose for annatto seed extract. Optimal dosage ranges vary based on the intended use, with annatto typically used in small amounts as a food coloring. The maximum safe dose is not well-defined. There are no specific timing recommendations for annatto consumption. Annatto can be consumed as part of foods or supplements, but specific forms, such as nanostructured forms, may have different efficacy profiles. Bioavailability may be influenced by the form and preparation method. Due to limited research, it is advisable to consult with a healthcare provider before using annatto seed extract as a supplement.

FAQs

Is annatto seed extract safe to use?

Annatto is generally considered safe in small amounts as a food coloring. However, more research is needed to determine the safety of annatto seed extract when used as a supplement, especially in high doses or for prolonged periods.

What are the potential benefits of annatto seed extract?

Studies suggest annatto has antioxidant, antimicrobial, and immunomodulatory effects. It may also improve satiety markers. However, clinical evidence specifically for annatto seed extract is limited, and more research is needed.

Are there any side effects associated with annatto seed extract?

Potential side effects are rare but may include allergic reactions or gastrointestinal disturbances. Pregnant or breastfeeding women should consult a healthcare provider before using annatto seed extract.

How should I take annatto seed extract?

There are no established guidelines for annatto seed extract dosage or timing. It is best to consult with a healthcare provider for personalized recommendations if considering it as a supplement.

Research Sources

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11510392/ – This systematic review examines annatto nanostructures and their potential for biomedical applications. The review, encompassing nine studies, highlights the antioxidant, antimicrobial, and immunomodulatory effects of these nanostructures, suggesting promise in various biomedical fields. However, the authors note the need for more clinical trials specifically focused on annatto seed extract to confirm these benefits.
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4856788/ – This review provides a comprehensive overview of annatto's phytochemistry and potential pharmacological applications. It discusses the traditional uses of annatto and its potential health benefits. While it offers valuable insights into annatto's properties, it focuses on general annatto characteristics rather than specifically on annatto seed extract.
https://www.mdpi.com/2304-8158/13/5/731 – This clinical study investigates the effects of annatto-enriched eggs on satiety markers in healthy adults from Colombia. The findings suggest that annatto-enriched eggs may improve satiety. However, the study is small-scale with limited generalizability, and more robust studies are needed to confirm these findings.
https://fsct.modares.ac.ir/article-7-64356-en.pdf – This article discusses the traditional uses and potential pharmacological benefits of annatto. It provides a general overview of annatto's properties and applications. The review focuses on general annatto properties rather than seed extract specifically, offering a broad understanding of its potential uses.
https://www.mdpi.com/2304-8158/14/4/704 – This study explores the potential health benefits of annatto and its components. It provides insights into the various applications of annatto. The research highlights the need for further investigation into the specific effects of annatto seed extract.