A preventative treatment against sunburn. Roucou is a shrub that produces a fruit, the coloring of which is beta-bixin. The oil extracted from the seeds is the main source of carotenoid pigments such as bixin and norbixin. Bixin is used as a food coloring, but it is also recognized as a protective agent against ultraviolet rays and as an antioxidant. 100 times richer in beta-carotene than carrots, Roucou oil stimulates melanin production. It also contains vitamins and minerals as well as ellagic acid, which neutralizes free radicals and has antioxidant properties that protect against UV rays. It is therefore an excellent pre- and post-sun preparation. Roucou also contains an important vitamin that restores vitality: ascorbic acid, or more commonly, vitamin C. It is traditionally used by Native Americans, who rub it all over their bodies to protect their skin from the sun and insects. It is also beneficial for insect bites of all kinds, as it prevents your skin from swelling.
