Bixin Tree (Bixa orellana)

Bixin Tree (Bixa orellana) is a member of the Bixaceae family, native to Central America, Northern South America, and Caribbean. Traditionally, its seeds, leaves, and fruits have been used for infusions, powders, and decoctions.

This herb is particularly valued for its anti-inflammatory, astringent, and tonic actions, and has a long history of use in african traditional medicine, native american herbal medicine, and ayurvedic medicine.

Bixin Tree (Bixa orellana) dried pieces of the herb arranged on a wooden table for reference — Bixin Tree (Bixa orellana) dried pieces of the herb arranged together on a wooden table for reference, used in teas and remedies.

Quick Facts / Key Information

Common Name	Bixin Tree
Scientific Name	Bixa orellana
Plant Family	Bixaceae
Genus	Bixa
Species	orellana
Native Range	Central America, Northern South America, Caribbean
Plant Parts Used	Seeds, Leaves, Fruits
Primary Medicinal Actions	Anti-Inflammatory, Astringent, Tonic
Primary Traditional Systems	African Traditional Medicine, Native American Herbal Medicine, Ayurvedic Medicine
Historical Preparation Methods	Infusion, Powder, Decoction

Botanical Identity

Scientific Name: Bixa orellana
Common Name: Bixin Tree
Synonyms / Alternative Names: Bixa, Redwood Tree, Annatto
Plant Family: Bixaceae
Genus: Bixa

Botanical Description

Growth Habit: Perennial herbaceous plant.
Height: It typically grows to a height of 3 to 10 meters.
Leaves: Broad leaves with upper surface reddish-brown and lower surface pale green, bearing prominent stomatal bands along the midrib.
Flowers: Inflorescences are clustered, flowers are actinomorphic, with five white petals and five yellow sepals, and three stamens with yellow anthers.
Stems: Woody, branched, with opposite, glabrous, and ridged surface.

Traditional Uses / Historical Use

Traditional Systems

African Traditional Medicine
Native American Herbal Medicine
Ayurvedic Medicine

Historical Preparation Methods

Infusion
Powder
Decoction
Poultice

Medicinal Actions

Anti-inflammatory: As described in traditional systems, a moderate anti-inflammatory, for irritation-related applications.
Astringent: In herbal texts, considered a soothing astringent, for skin-related applications.
Tonic: Commonly referenced as a gentle tonic, for long-term use contexts.
Diuretic: In herbal literature, noted as a calming diuretic, for moisture-related balance.

Active Compounds

Flavonoid: Naturally occurring polyphenols that contribute to pigmentation and structural chemistry.
Phenolic Acid: Simple phenolic molecules widely distributed across plant tissues.
Tannin: A group of compounds frequently present in plant tissues exposed to herbivory.
Coumarin: Naturally occurring lactone compounds distributed across various plant tissues.

Modern Research Overview

Scientific literature concerning this plant spans multiple areas, including phytochemistry and laboratory research. Detailed analysis of published studies is not included at this time and will be added as part of future editorial expansion.

Safety & Contraindications

General Precautions: Caution is advised in certain contexts based on traditional use and available information.
Contraindications: Certain contraindications have been reported in relation to the use of this herb.
Allergies: Allergic reactions associated with this herb have not been well documented.
Drug Interactions: Available information regarding interactions with pharmaceutical drugs is limited.
Toxicity: This herb has been associated with toxic effects under certain conditions.
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding: Use during pregnancy or breastfeeding has not been clearly established in available sources.

Preparation & Usage Methods

Infusion: Water is poured over plant material and allowed to steep before straining.
Decoction: A preparation method involving prolonged boiling of roots, bark, or dense plant material.
Poultice: This method uses direct contact between plant material and the skin.
Powder: Plant parts are dried and mechanically reduced to a powdered form.
Culinary Use: This method integrates plant material into edible preparations.

Growing, Harvesting & Storage

Growing / Cultivation

Soil: Prefers loamy soil with well-drained conditions. Typically grows best in organically rich soils.
Sunlight: Thrives in partial sun. Tolerates full sun to partial shade.
Watering: Prefers well-balanced moisture levels. Tolerates periodic dry conditions.