Pharmacological Properties of Bixa Orellana ? A Review

Bixa orellana popularly known as urucum, has been used by indigenous communities in Brazil and other tropical countries for several biological applications, which indicates its potential use as an active ingredient in pharmaceutical products. It is a shrub used as an ornamental plant in India and is best known as the source of the natural pigment annatto, produced from the fruit. Parts of the plant has been used to make medicinal remedies. Bixa orellana is well known for its coloring agent and medicinal value. Annatto used in food dye, body paint, treatment for heart burn and stomach distress, sunscreen and insect repellant. The main actions of annatto color are it kills bacteria, parasites, germs, increases urination, stimulates digestion, lowers blood pressure, mildly laxative, and protects liver. The other actions of annatto color includes it reduces inflammation, cough, cleanses blood, soothes membrane, reduces fever, blood sugar, heals wounds. Therefore, this work comprises a systematic review about the use of Bixa Orellana. This study shows the well-characterized pharmacological actions that may be considered relevant for the future development of an innovative therapeutic agent.