Summary:
Kolkata: Sidho Kanho Birsha University (SKBU) has been successful in cultivation of lipstick tree at Bagmundi and Barabazar block in Purulia which can be widely used for colouring foodstuffs, soft drinks, dying of textiles, cosmetics and ethnopharmacological purposes. "The dyes that are popular in the market particularly the red coloured one is toxic and can lead to various health hazards. SKBU has kicked off the cultivation of the plant from this monsoon season at Barabazar and Bagmundi block. Lipstick plant or 'annatto' is native to tropical central and South America. A plant produces nearly 2.5 kg seeds and the minimum rate is Rs 500 per kg..