Annatto Seed (Urucum)

The urucum or urucu, from the Tupi, uru’ku, which means “red”, is a fruit that grows on the tree belonging to the Bixa orellana species. Native to tropical America, the annatto trees can reach up to six meters in height, with pale green leaves and pink flowers, with fruits whose seeds are bright red. Annatto seeds are traditionally used by Brazilian and Peruvian Indians as raw material for red dyes (natural dye), sunscreen, repellent and religious item of thanks for harvesting and fishing. Urucum is a 100% natural dye and is rich in tocotrienol, an excellent antioxidant, ideal for the production of natural bronzers and sunscreens. Urucum fights free radicals responsible for aging.   Instructions: Infuse these seeds in a carrier oil, to get an orange tint to color your soap with. The usage rate is 1 tsp. of seeds in 16 oz. of oil to get orange. To get reddish, use 4 tsp. in 32 oz. After infusing for a full week, use this oil as your base oil in your soap recipe to achieve the desired color. Don't forget: Strain the annatto seeds before using the oil.   Paris Fragrances is not liable for misuse in handling our products nor are we responsible for the final result of your product.  See our store policy page.