Haematoxylon campechianum – cut wood

Native to Central America and the Caribbean, logwood has historically been used to produce natural dyes, particularly purple and blue. Its bark and wood contain powerful dye compounds, also traditionally used in popular infusions in Latin America.

Description

Hardwood cut into irregular fragments, red to dark purple in color. Woody and subtly spicy odor. Intense coloring when infused or boiled.

Nomenclature

• Common names: Logwood, bluewood, haematoxyle
• Latin name: Haematoxylon campechianum
• Family: Fabaceae
• Part used: Wood
• Shape: Coupe
• Origin: Central America, Caribbean
• English name: Logwood
• German name: Blauholz
• Name in Spanish: Palo de Campeche
• Name in Italian: Legno di campeggio
• Name in Arabic: خشب القَمبِيش (Khashab al-Qambīsh)

Main virtues

This wood is traditionally used for its tinctorial properties in dyeing natural textiles. In decoction, it offers an intense red-violet hue. It is also reported in some pharmacopoeias for its tannins and mild astringent action, although its internal use should be cautious.

Main constituents

Hematoxylin, hematein, tannins, phenolic compounds, natural pigments.

Use and dosage

• Dyeing: decoction of 10 to 30 g/L depending on the desired shade (fixing with mordant recommended).
• Traditional infusion: 1 teaspoon for 250 ml, boil for 10 to 15 min (traditional use under supervision).
• Crafts: coloring base for paper, textiles or natural cosmetics (with caution).

Precautions, side effects and contraindications

• Limited internal use: always consult a professional before consumption.
• Avoid in pregnant and breastfeeding women and young children.
• Highly colouring product: handle with care.

History and origin

Used by the Mayan and Aztec civilizations, logwood was exported to Europe as early as the 16th century to make natural dyes. It quickly became a highly prized commodity and has made its mark on the history of dye plants. It is still sought after today in eco-friendly textile craft circles.

Miscellaneous information

• Storage: dry, away from light.
• Packaging: kraft bag, waterproof box or opaque pot.
• Appearance: Dark hardwood chips or fragments.
• Odor: woody, slightly acrid.

Sources and references

• Pl@ntUse – https://uses.plantnet-project.org
• History of dye plants – CNRS
• Colonial Botanical Corpus – American Archives
• Natural dyeing artisanal networks

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