Abstract
Henna is a natural colorant and has been used to dye hair, skin and leather since civilization began. It has reddish brown to orange shade. The major color components of Henna are Lawsone(2-hydroxy-1,4-naphthaquinone) and Luteolin (3',4',5,7-tetrahydroxy-flavone). In this study, various fibers containing the nitrogen component, especially used fur underwear, were dyed with Henna under various dyeing conditions, then dyeing characteristics, color fastness, and anti-bacterial properties were evaluated. from the results, Henna has good affinity to the chlorinated wool>wool>Pu/nylon>nylon>soybean>silk in decreasing order. The color fastness of the wool fabric dyed with Henna to washing, dry-cleaning, and perspiration showed 4-5 grade. The color fastness to light was 3rd grade. These results are relatively good comparing with other natural dyes. Moreover dyed fabric with Henna showed excellent antibacterial activity.