Tag: Natural dye

Purple sweet potatoes contain a powerful antioxidant known as anthocyanin, giving them up to three times more antioxidant activity than blueberries. This vibrant tuber’s purpose extends beyond its striking color, offering significant health and culinary advantages that have been prized in cultures like Okinawa for centuries.

Believe it or not, the humble avocado seed contains over 70% of the fruit's total antioxidant content, making it a powerful resource often wasted. Instead of tossing this dense pit, you can repurpose it in surprising and creative ways, from growing your own plant to making homemade beauty treatments.

Over 90% of American consumers eat products containing Red 40, yet many are confused about its origins. The quick and simple answer is no: Is Red 40 a natural dye? The dye is a synthetic compound, chemically created from petroleum by-products.

Though annatto may not be widely known, an estimated 70% of natural food colors are derived from it, making it a powerful and common additive. So, what does annatto powder do in practice? This versatile spice, derived from the achiote tree, is prized for its color, subtle flavor, and potential health advantages.

Recent research confirms that the outer skins of onions provide an exceptionally rich source of plant compounds called flavonoids, including the potent antioxidant quercetin, often in higher concentrations than the onion's flesh. By boiling these often-discarded peels, you can extract these valuable compounds for use in a variety of surprising applications around your home and for your health.

While often mistaken for actual grapes, Oregon grape berries are distinctly tart and offer a vibrant, earthy flavor when sweetened. So, what can I do with Oregon grape berries to transform them into a culinary or herbal asset?

The aparajita flower, or butterfly pea, is a rich source of antioxidants called ternatins, which are responsible for its vibrant blue hue. This versatile and edible bloom has been used for centuries in traditional medicine and is gaining global recognition for its health benefits and unique color-changing properties.

Made from the flowers of the Clitoria ternatea plant, butterfly pea tea is naturally caffeine-free, making it a popular alternative for those seeking a relaxing beverage without the jitters. Unlike traditional teas sourced from the Camellia sinensis plant, this vivid blue infusion offers a serene experience for tea lovers.

Used for centuries in Ayurvedic medicine, the vibrant blue butterfly pea flower is packed with potent antioxidants and offers a range of benefits for the body. This tropical plant, known scientifically as *Clitoria ternatea*, is not just a natural food coloring but a powerhouse of wellness properties.

Katha powder is a 100% natural and pure powder made from the heartwood of the Acacia catechu tree. This extract has been used for centuries in Ayurvedic medicine, as a natural dye, and as an essential ingredient in South Asian 'paan'.