Haematoxylon campechianum – powdered wood

An iconic tropical tree, logwood was one of the first plants used for natural dyeing in Europe. In powder form, it offers great ease of use and a high pigment yield in decoctions or natural extractions.

Description

Fine powder, reddish-brown to purplish in color. Strong woody odor. Very coloring, even at low dosage.

Nomenclature

• Common names: Logwood, bluewood, haematoxyle
• Latin name: Haematoxylon campechianum
• Family: Fabaceae
• Part used: Wood
• Form: Powder
• Origin: Central America, Antilles
• English name: Logwood powder
• German name: Blauholzpulver
• Name in Spanish: Polvo de palo de Campeche
• Name in Italian: Polvere di legno di campeggio
• Name in Arabic: مسحوق خشب القَمبِيش (Masḥūq Khashab al-Qambīsh)

Main virtues

Known for its richness in plant pigments and astringent tannins, Logwood powder is used in the natural coloring of textiles, paper, soaps, and cosmetics. Traditionally, it is also used to make decoctions for purifying or antiseptic purposes (for restricted use).

Main constituents

Hematoxylin, hematein, condensed tannins, flavonoids, phenolic compounds.

Use and dosage

• Tincture: 1 to 5 g per liter of water depending on the desired concentration. Heat over low heat.
• Infusion (traditional): 1/2 teaspoon for 250 ml, decoction 10 min (reserve for supervised use).
• Natural coloring: plant pigment for soaps, masks or hair care (in mixture).

Precautions, side effects and contraindications

• For professional or informed use only.
• Keep out of reach of children. Not recommended for internal use without medical advice.
• Highly colouring product: handle with gloves and care.

History and origin

Since the 16th century, logwood powder has been used to produce natural, durable dyes ranging from purple to black. Valued by dyers and herbalists, it is also incorporated into certain Mesoamerican medicinal traditions, provided the necessary precautions are taken.

Miscellaneous information

• Storage: opaque pot or lined kraft bag, in a dry place.
• Packaging: loose powder or airtight jar.
• Appearance: Fine powder, reddish brown to dark purple.
• Smell: woody, slightly smoky.

Sources and references

• Pl@ntUse – https://uses.plantnet-project.org
• CNRS files on plant dyeing
• Colonial Botanical Corpus – America
• Artisanal dyeing traditions

🔎 Information

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