Alkanet Dye Powder

Botanical name: Alkanna tinctoria

Common name: It has several common names such as Dyer’s Alkanet, Spanish Bugloss and Anchusa.

Colorant: Alkannin

Dye type: Adjective dye (in this process color development requires alcohol extraction)

Shade Range: Gives colors from lavender to deep purples and even grey-blue depending on the type of fiber that is being used together with the pH of the vat. Acidic color vat will produce reds and purples while an alkali vent will give the colors a blue tinge.

Mordant Requirements: Alkanet does not need a mordant, although the use of either alum or iron will deepen the color. To extract the dye, it is necessary to use an alcohol, for example vodka or ethanol, because alkanet is insoluble in water.

Fastness: Test results showed that alkanet has average wash fastness but is slightly photo-sensitive; therefore, the recommended use would be in items that will not be subjected to direct sunlight.

Common Uses: In textile, alkanet is acceptable for use in fabrics offering colors to cosmetics such as lip creams, and soaps. It is globally used in the natural dyeing sector.

Country of Origin: Mediterranean region., Southern Europe and some parts of Asia.

Vegetarian product: Yes