What does the lipstick tree cure?

The orangish red colouring constituent is called bixin. Annatto tree leaves are refreshing and are used to treat various inflammations, including bronchitis, as well as dysentery and diarrhea. An infusion of the seeds reduces fever. The fruit is also used as a food colouring and in making cosmetics, including lipstick.

What is a lipstick tree?

Achiote – Bixa Also known as annatto or the Lipstick tree, originates from South America and has spread in popularity to many parts of Asia. The achiote dye is prepared by stirring the seeds in water, and is popular in South America and Asia to colour rice, desserts, butter, cheese, and many other foods.

Which tree is known as lipstick tree?

Bixa orellana
Bixa orellana, also known as the lipstick tree, is a small tree or shrub native to tropical regions in Mexico, Central America, South America and the Caribbean. Its five-petaled, rose-like flowers vary from white, pink or light purple.

Where does the lipstick tree get its name?

For this reason, the Bixa orellana is sometimes called the lipstick tree. The species name, Bixa orellana, was given by Linnaeus after the Spanish conquistador, Francisco de Orellana, an early explorer of the Amazon River. The name achiote derives from the Nahuatl word for the shrub, āchiotl [aːˈt͡ʃiot͡ɬ].

What are the seeds of the lipstick tree used for?

Seeds yield a red dye that is used in numerous commercial and industrial processes. Historically, indigenous peoples have used the seeds and plant for body paint, and to treat a variety of maladies.

What kind of light does a lipstick tree need?

Most types or red, but there are rarer, yellow and green fruiting plants. Lipstick trees are frost sensitive and grows best in direct sunlight. The lipstick tree will succeed in subtropical climates, but flourishes in the tropics, where profusions of fruit ripen on and off throughout the year.

How big is a Bixa orellana lipstick tree?

Bixa orellana. Spiny red fruit with hard, deep red seeds that are used as a spice, in cosmetics, and as an industrial dye. Seed Availability. Seeds are now available at our seed store. Description. Small tree or bush, to 6-20ft. Most types or red, but there are rarer, yellow and green fruiting plants.

When do the flowers on a lipstick tree open?

Lipstick tree flowers open before dawn, when they are visited by large bees. Smaller bees also visit them in the morning. These insects harvest the abundant pollen from the flowers, which do not produce any nectar. The flowers fade around noon and the corolla drops off in late afternoon.