CategoriesPlants and Active Ingredients Guide

Bixa Orellana (Roucou) : Benefits, Origin, Use as a Food Supplement

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Bixa Orellana (Roucou)

1. Introducing Bixa Orellana (Roucou)

Le Bixa Orellanaalso known as Roucou or Achioteis a tropical plant belonging to the Bixaceae family. Its spiny fruit contains red seeds rich in beta-carotenesThis gives it exceptional antioxidant properties. Traditionally used by the peoples of South America and Asia for its medicinal and cosmetic virtues, roucou is now prized for its skin health, cell protection and hair vitality benefits.

2. Origin and habitat

Bixa Orellana is native to the tropical regions of Central and South Americamainly from Brazil, Peru, Mexico and the Caribbean. It grows wild in rainforests and is cultivated for its seeds, which are rich in natural pigments.

Used for centuries by the indigenous peoples of Amazonia, it was used as a natural dye, sun protection and medicinal remedy for various skin and inflammatory conditions.

3. Composition and active ingredients

Roucou seeds are a exceptional source of beta-carotenes and other beneficial nutrients:

  • Betacarotenes (precursor of vitamin A) 100 times more than carrots, promoting healthy skin and eyes.
  • Tocotrienols (active form of vitamin E) Powerful antioxidant for cell protection.
  • Apocarotenoids Natural pigments with anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial effects.
  • Essential fatty acids Helps to regenerate the skin and maintain moisture levels.
  • Minerals (selenium, zinc, magnesium) : Supports hair immunity and vitality.

4. Benefits and properties

Cellular and antioxidant protection

  • Neutralises free radicals responsible for premature ageing.
  • Protects skin and eyes against external aggressions (UV, pollution).
  • Supports cardiovascular health by reducing lipid oxidation.

Skin and hair care

  • Promotes a radiant complexion and stimulates the production of melanin.
  • Helps fight acne and blemishes thanks to its anti-inflammatory properties.
  • Strengthens and protects hair against external aggressions (sun, salt, pollution).

Liver and digestive support

  • Promotes digestion and the elimination of toxins by the liver.
  • Helps detoxification by stimulating liver enzymes.

Boosting the immune system

  • Protects against infections thanks to its antimicrobial properties.
  • Improves the body's resistance against external aggression.

5. Use as a food supplement

Bixa Orellana is available in several forms:

  • Roucou oil Skin or hair application.
  • Capsules or powder A dietary supplement containing beta-carotenes.
  • Infusion of seeds For its digestive and anti-inflammatory effects.

Recommended dosage

  • Antioxidant treatment 500 mg extract per day.
  • For skin and hair Apply castor oil 2 or 3 times a week.
  • In infusion 1 teaspoon of seeds infused in 200 ml of water, 1 to 2 times a day.

6. Precautions for use and contraindications

  • Not recommended for pregnant or breast-feeding women without medical advice.
  • Avoid in cases of allergy to carotenoids.
  • May interact with certain anticoagulants.

7. Suggested associations

  • For cell protection : Turmeric, Green tea.
  • For healthy skin Hyaluronic acid, Vitamin C.
  • For the hair Coconut oil, Collagen marine.

8. Sources and scientific references

  • INSERM - Studies on carotenoids and oxidative stress : www.inserm.fr
  • ANSES - Medicinal plants and food supplements : www.anses.fr
  • Herbal medicine review - Properties of Bixa Orellana : www.revmed.ch