An ancient plant pigment, still relevant today

Madder root powder has long been used in European dye houses to produce long-lasting red hues. Still prized today as a plant-based dye, it is used as a macerate or coloring paste for textiles. In plant-based cosmetics, it is used in masks and scrubs for a touch of natural color and tone.

Description

Fine reddish-brown to brick-red powder with a light, dry earthy scent. Highly concentrated in plant pigments. Dyes textiles and some natural surfaces.

Nomenclature

• Common names: Madder, Dyer's madder
• Latin name: Rubia tinctorum
• Family: Rubiaceae
• Part used: Root
• Form: Powder
• Origin: Southern Europe, Middle East
• English name: Madder root powder
• German name: Krappwurzelpulver
• Name in Spanish: Polvo de raíz de rubia
• Name in Italian: Polvere di radice di robbia
• Name in Arabic: مسحوق جذر الفوة

Main virtues

Madder powder is known for its ability to permanently color fabrics red or pink, depending on the mordant used. It is also incorporated into certain artisanal cosmetic treatments for its toning and mildly exfoliating properties.

Main constituents

Alizarin, purpurin, rubiadin, tannins, organic acids, sugar, pectins.

Use and dosage

• Dye: 30 to 80 g/L of powder depending on the desired intensity. Soak then heat between 60 and 70°C.
• Cosmetic: incorporated into plant powders or floral waters for homemade masks.
• External decoction: 5 to 10 g in 500 ml of water for compresses, scalp treatments or foot baths.

Precautions, side effects and contraindications

• Internal use not recommended without specialized supervision (presence of anthraquinones).
• May stain surfaces and clothing: handle with care.
• Keep out of reach of children. Avoid prolonged contact with sensitive mucous membranes.

History and origin

Used in ancient dye houses in Egypt, Persia, and Europe, madder helped color uniforms, fine textiles, and works of art. Its importance was such that some regions made a living from its cultivation. Today, its powder is regaining its nobility in the ecological and artisanal movement.

Miscellaneous information

• Packaging: kraft bag, tinted pot or sealed metal box.
• Storage: at room temperature, away from light and humidity.
• Shelf life: up to 3 years under good conditions.

Sources and references

• Practical Treatise on Vegetable Dyeing – Sustainable Crafts Editions
• Pl@ntUse – https://uses.plantnet-project.org
• Dyes and traditional plants of Europe – Ethnobotanical directory

🔎 Information

The products on aromacentre.fr are not medicines. They are natural, plant-based treatments. All usage advice on our site is for informational purposes only. Any additional requests should be made to a qualified healthcare professional. In accordance with Regulation (EC) No 1924/2006 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 20 December 2006 on nutrition and health claims made on foods, we are unable to publish this information on the site. Taking this product does not exempt you from consulting a doctor or prescribing it. Ask your doctor or healthcare practitioner for advice. Be sure to read the precautions for use before using any medicinal plants. The use of herbal preparations is not recommended without consulting your doctor or pharmacist. The substances they contain may interact with medications prescribed by the patient, reducing their therapeutic effectiveness or causing toxicity. They can also worsen the weakening of the body's vital functions, thus exposing the patient to increased morbidity and life-threatening risks.

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