Sappanwood
रक्तक (Raktaka)
Caesalpina sappan
Sappanwood is venerated across India for its therapeutic quality. It has strong anti-oxidant, anti-microbial and anti-allergic properties, and from an Ayurvedic perspective, lends a primarily cooling action that encourages Pitta balance.
It supports healthy skin and provides relief for skin disorders caused by Pitta aggravation. Sappanwood is also effective in protecting the skin from the ageing effects of harmful UV rays.
Sappanwood dyed textiles and fabrics are ideal for use in products that will support healthy skin, promote mental and spiritual balance, and act as a cooling agent to calm aggravated Pitta.
Sappanwood dyed textiles range from bright berry pinks to violet.
Two different shades of sappanwood are used in AyurSatwa's Chakra Yoga Mat. The darker shade of sappanwood is used to signify the first chakra, Muladhara chakra and a lighter shade for the seventh chakra, Sahasara chakra.
Muladhara chakra is located at the base of the spine and connected to the fulfillment of basic needs so you can be open to abundance. Sahasara Chakra is located above the crown of the head. A balanced seventh chakra allows for the release of ego attachment and connects you with divine energy.
It is essential to use alum as a mordant when using Sappanwood as a plant dye to prevent the color from bleeding. Alum is a safe and naturally occuring mordant that has astringent and antiseptic properties.
In general, mordants act as a barrier to the absorption of kashyam, the Ayurvedic medicinal herb concoction that is added to all our dye baths. Alum is a gentle acting, natural mordant that allows the Ayurvedic medicinal concoction to penetrate into the fibers.
