Demands for natural dyes have been steadily increasing globally due to increased awareness on their therapeutic properties. Natural dyes are derived from natural sources such as plants, insects and minerals. They are getting popular because they carry no side effects, they protect against harmful UV rays and are said to possess anti-ageing properties. Natural dyes are used to impart color to a variety of materials like textiles, paper, wood etc. They are also used to impart colors in the products of such industries like cosmetic, food and pharmaceutical industries.
Why are natural dyes gaining an edge over synthetic dyes?
Many synthetic colorants are banned because they cause allergy-like symptoms
or are found to be carcinogenic. In case of natural dyes, they are found to be
- Non-Allergic
- Non-toxic
- Eco-friendly
- Earthy and subtle
- Having wide range of medicinal values.
- Having remarkable antimicrobial properties
Natural dyes give us a sense of having quality that is perceived as superior. They successfully provide full spectrum of colors except for fluorescent and electric blues.
The natural dyes also show the following properties
- They give strong yields
- They are resistant to fading
- They color relatively fast
- They are easily availability
- They are biodegradable
Classification of Natural Dyes obtained
Most natural colors are obtained from plants. Those natural dyes obtained from animals / insects are termed as Cochineal. Similarly those natural dyes that are obtained from minerals are termed as Ocher.
Few Trending Natural Dyes
Turmeric
It is also known as Indian saffron. It is used to impart yellow color on the fabric. Turmeric is a known antioxidant which possesses anti-inflammatory and anti-cancerous properties. It has known anti-bacterial properties and the fabrics dyed in turmeric can safeguard the skin.
Marigold
Marigold is used to impart yellow to orange color to the dye. Marigold is a known natural insecticide and it is widely believed that insects get repelled to fabrics that are dyed with marigold.