The Annatto/Lipstick tree (Bixa orellana) tree has a wide variety of uses. For centuries, rainforest peoples have used the plant for things from insect repellant to lowering blood pressure to love potions. Its traditional uses are backed by recent research. Colombians have used extracts from the plant to treat snakebites. A study in 2000 confirmed this use in mice. Oil from the plant contains carotenoids (plant pigments), one of which, Bixin, protects against UV rays. Annatto is still used today in South America to treat heartburn.
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