A new method for reddening dyer's saffron florets: Evaluation of carthamin productivity

Abstract

A diluted solution of KMnO4 was found to facilitate the reddening of the detached florets from dyer's saffron (Carthamus tinctorius) flowers. In the reddened tissues, substantial amounts of aCarthamus dye was detectable visually. This was isolated and purified through successive column chromatography using various solvent systems. A red colouring matter obtained was characterized chromatographically and spectroscopically. The analytical data proved that the pigment is identical with carthamin. This new technique was evaluated by comparing it with the procedures usually applied.