Shikonin CAS 517-89-5

Specification

Application

Shikonin has been used as a red dye for centuries and is reported to possess medicinal properties such as antibacterial, anti-inflammatory and antitumor activities. It occurs as an acetyl derivative in the Japanese shikone, Lithospermum erythrorhizon, another member of the Boraginaceae family. It is the (R)-optical isomer of alkannin. Tissue cultures of L. erythrorhizon are used in Japan to manufacture shikonin mainly for cosmetic use. Both alkannin and shikonin are mordant dyes producing violet to gray colors on fabrics. In Japan, shikonin was used to dye fabrics a color known as Tokyo Violet. Shikalkin the racemate, has been synthesized.    

Storage

-20°C