alkanet (dye)

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  12. alkanet
Scope note
Generic name for red-colored substances of similar composition obtained from the roots of either of two species of plants. In the near East and Europe, alkanet is extracted from Anchusa officinalis. In Asia, alkanet is extracted from Lawsonia inermis. The primary colorant is alkanninH. It was used in late Egyptian times through the Middle Ages as a red dye; use as dye was discontinued because of poor lightfastness. The compound has been used as a textile dye, wood stain, lake pigment, cosmetic, as an acid-base indicator, and for medicinal purposes.
alkanet
Accepted term: 29-Apr-2024