Mordanting Effects on the Dyeing Properties of Noni Root Extracts on Silk Fabrics

Morinda citrifolia, commercially known as Noni, is a tree that grows widely throughout the Pacific, and is recognized as one of the most significant sources of traditional medicines among Pacific Island societies. All parts of the plant have traditional and/or modern uses, including roots and bark(dyes, medicine), trunks(firewood, tools), and leaves and fruits(food, medicine). The bark and the roots of the tree contain red and yellow pigments respectively, which are both used in the manufacture of dyes. Dyes from Noni are being used traditionally, to color clothing and fabrics. In this study, mordanting effects on the dyeing properties of Noni root extract on silk fabrics were investigated.