Annatto Seed (Bixa orellana) has been used for centuries and can be traced as far back as the ancient Mayans.
Aannatto seed is a natural emollient, and produces an extremely rich, creamy lather when used in handmade soap. The seeds are coated with a paste like oil containing Bixin pigment. The seeds can be heated/soaked in oil to remove the Bixin and then the oil is used to make and/or color soap, lip balms, bath salts, bath balms and other skincare products.
Annatto seeds can be used to create a deep, orange colored oil. This infused oil can then be used to tint skin care products naturally. Use 1 tablespoon of annatto seeds per cup of oil to get a dark orange oil. Olive oil is a good oil to use, but any vegetable oil will work. Heat the seeds and oil gently over a double boiler until the oil turns a deep orange color. Strain out the seeds, and use the oil as needed in creams, lotions, soaps, bath salts, bath bombs and lip balms.
