Question

_________ is obtained from the wood of Caesalpinia sappan.

• A. Santaline dye
• B. Brazilian dye
• C. Cutch dye
• D. Artocarpus dye

Hint:

The country name 'Brazil' was derived from the Portuguese name for the related tree *Caesalpinia echinata* (brazilwood), which contains the exact same red dye compound (brazilin) as its Asian relative, *Caesalpinia sappan*.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Forest trees contain specialized heartwood extractives that serve as sources for natural, non-toxic dyes.

Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
Caesalpinia sappan (commonly known as Sappanwood or Pathimugam) is a deciduous leguminous tree native to Southeast Asia and India.
The heartwood of this tree contains a high concentration of a natural phenolic compound called brazilin (often referred to as Brazilian dye or Sappan dye).
When extracted, this compound oxidizes to form brazilein, a deep red-to-pink pigment historically traded for coloring textiles, leather, inks, and beverages.
Let us review the other options:
- Santaline dye is obtained from the red sandalwood tree (*Pterocarpus santalinus*).
- Cutch dye (catechu) is extracted from the heartwood of *Acacia catechu*.
- Artocarpus dye is obtained from the heartwood of *Artocarpus heterophyllus* (Jackwood).

Step 3: Final Answer:
Hence, Brazilian dye (brazilin) is obtained from the wood of Caesalpinia sappan, corresponding to option (B).