Evaluation of dyeing properties of Eclipta Alba L. on protein yarn and their chemical analysis

Dyes are colored substances used to color fibers, leather, paper or foodstuffs etc. Due to the benign nature of dye extracted from natural sources, more importance is given on this area. Natural dyes also protect us from harmful UV rays of the sun and also provide superior quality sensory feelings in contrast to the carcinogenic effect of synthetic dyes. In this study, natural dyes present in the Eclipta alba L(Hassk) were extracted using conventional techniques under different operating conditions. Potential of the chemicals obtained from the extracts of Eclipta alba. L. was evaluated by coloring pure yarn of silk and wool. Various metal salts were used as mordants to set extracted dye on the fabrics and yarns. The result showed a variation of attractive and earthly green hue on silk and wool. The phyto chemical analysis of the extract reveals that three chemical compounds wedelolactone, apigenin and luteolin are mainly responsible for different shades of bluish green colour extract of the Eclipta alba plant. Spectrochemical analysis was done to identify the compounds present in the dye extract.