Question

Write a short note on Natural dyes.

Answer 1

Many natural dyes have been known from a long time. These are obtained from vegetable sources.

• Henna: It is a reddish-brown dye obtained from the plant Lawsonia inermis (Tamil: Maruthondri). A paste of these leaves is used as a hair dye and also for colouring palms.

• Turmeric: It is the traditional natural cosmetic in India. It is obtained from the plant Curcuma. longa. It also acts as an antiseptic. Turmeric is mostly used in India for colouring food.