Madder Root Powder

What is madder root powder?

Madder root powder is deep red in colour and is extracted from the root of the madder plant (Rubia tinctorum).

The madder root plant is a perennial climbing vine from the coffee family. Alizarin is found in the roots of the plant and is the main dyeing component that produces the red dye.

Madder roots have been used as a natural dye since ancient times. There is evidence of madder root being used to dye fabrics from over 5000 years ago.

What is madder root powder used for?

Madder root powder is a natural dye that is commonly used in soap making and textiles, to dye fabrics like wool and cotton.

When natural madder root powder is used in soap making, it can produce a pink, red or burgundy coloured soap bar.

Madder root powder should be added to lye water or at trace in the soap making processes. It is recommended to use 2 to 3 teaspoons per pound of soap to create a pink to red colour.