Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 1

Annatto (Bixa orellana) is a natural food colorant derived from the seeds of the achiote tree. In traditional medicine, particularly in various parts of South and Central America, annatto has been used for a range of ailments, including skin conditions, digestive issues, and as a general tonic. Traditional uses sometimes extended to liver-related conditions, such as jaundice, likely because of the seed’s distinctive yellow-orange pigment (bixin), which visually resembles bilirubin, the substance responsible for jaundice's yellowing of the skin and eyes.

However, the evidence for annatto’s efficacy in treating or supporting jaundice is primarily anecdotal and based on folk practices rather than systematically collected scientific data. There are no well-conducted clinical trials in humans demonstrating that annatto or its active components have a measurable effect on jaundice or on underlying liver function. Some in vitro and animal studies have suggested antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, but these findings cannot be directly extrapolated to the treatment of jaundice in adults.

In summary, while annatto has a history of traditional use for various ailments, including jaundice, the scientific evidence supporting its use for this specific condition is minimal to nonexistent. Modern clinical guidelines do not include annatto as a recognized or recommended therapy for jaundice.

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