The seeds of Bixa Orellana L. contain carotenoids, tocotrienols (main subgroup of vitamin E), saturated and unsaturated fatty acids, flavonoids and vitamin C.

It has a great antioxidant and emollient power. The bixin compound is the most quoted and important, it is a dark red crystalline substance. Small amounts of isobixin and norbixin are also found and are registered as food coloring authorized by the European Union under the denomination E160b.

Native to Central America, South America and warm Andean areas.

It is currently used as a substitute for saffron.