Bixa Orellana vs Sclerocarya Birrea

Tropical tree native to tropical America whose seeds produce the red pigment bixin used as a food coloring and medicinally for skin protection and anti-inflammatory conditions.

Southern African tree revered across multiple cultures; bark used for antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory purposes; oil from seeds is prized for skin care.

bixin, norbixin, carotenoids, tocotrienols, flavonoids

gallotannins, catechins, vitamin C, oleic acid, beta-sitosterol

skin conditions, wound healing, antimicrobial, antioxidant, fever

Wound healing, Skin conditions, Diarrhea, Fever

antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, skin care

Antioxidant properties, Antimicrobial activity, Anti-inflammatory effects, Skin moisturizing

Seed paste applied topically or leaf tea 5–10g daily

Bark decoction: 1 cup twice daily; seed oil topically

pregnancy high doses, allergy to annatto, blood thinners

Pregnancy (bark in large doses)

skin staining orange, hypoglycemia, allergic reactions

Mild digestive effects from bark, Skin reaction from oil in sensitive individuals