The achiote Bixa orellana is a shrub that is indigenous to the tropics of America. Its seed covering, when ground, was used by the ancient Aztec to flavor CHOCOLATE drinks and to dye clothing. The Aztec civilization arose in Mesoamerica about A.D. 1100. Bixin, the bright red, oily DYE contained in the husks, was used as body paint by Indians in South America’s Amazon Basin and served double duty as an INSECT REPELLENT. It was used to color pottery as well. The dye, also known as annatto, is employed today as food coloring, primarily for butter, margarine and cheeses, and as a seasoning.
Senin, 03 November 2008
The Use of Achiote (annatto, bixin, Bixa orellana) by native americans
The achiote Bixa orellana is a shrub that is indigenous to the tropics of America. Its seed covering, when ground, was used by the ancient Aztec to flavor CHOCOLATE drinks and to dye clothing. The Aztec civilization arose in Mesoamerica about A.D. 1100. Bixin, the bright red, oily DYE contained in the husks, was used as body paint by Indians in South America’s Amazon Basin and served double duty as an INSECT REPELLENT. It was used to color pottery as well. The dye, also known as annatto, is employed today as food coloring, primarily for butter, margarine and cheeses, and as a seasoning.
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