Abstract
Henna is a natural colorant and has been used to dye hair, skin and leather since civilization began. It produces a reddish brown to orange shade. The major color components of Henna are Lawsone(2-hydroxy-l,4-naphthaquinone) and Luteolin (3',4',5,7-tetrahydroxy-flavone). In this study, the optimum dyeing conditions for Henna on to the wool fabrics were investigated. Wool fabrics were dyed with Henna at various time, temperature, concentration and pH conditions. Dyeing property, color fastness and anti-bacterial properties were evaluated. From the results, the optimum dyeing conditions for Henna on to the wool fabrics are 60℃, pH 7, 2% o.w.b., and 45 min. The color fastness of the wool fabric dyed with Henna to washing, dry-cleaning, and perspiration were grade 4-5. The color fastness to light was grade 3. These results are relatively good compared with other natural dyes. Moreover fabric dyed with Henna showed excellent antibacterial activity.