Alkanet

Botanical

What is it

Alkanet (Alkanna tinctoria) is a Mediterranean herb whose red root is used as a natural dye for cosmetics, food coloring, and traditional skin preparations.

Evidence for 1 use

AI-assisted evidence assessment — talk to your doctor before relying on any single supplement.

Wound healing (topical, traditional)

Mixed Evidence

Topical alkanin and shikonin derivatives show wound-healing and antimicrobial activity in preclinical studies; clinical evidence is limited.

How it works

Alkanet root contains naphthoquinone pigments (alkannin and shikonin derivatives) that give it a deep red color and provide antimicrobial and wound-healing properties in topical applications. These compounds also contain pyrrolizidine alkaloids (PAs), some of which are hepatotoxic and potentially carcinogenic, raising concerns about internal use. Topical and traditional cosmetic use is the most accepted application; internal supplementation is not advisable due to PA exposure.

Dosage

No safe internal dose has been established. Topical use varies.

When and how to take it

Not recommended for internal use.

2 commercial forms

Compare the main delivery options and what they’re best suited for.

Dried root (powdered)

Primarily for coloring soaps, lip products and oils.

Used as natural dye.

Root glycerite or extract

Topical application only.

Variable; internal use not recommended.

Safety

Pyrrolizidine alkaloids in alkanet pose risk of hepatotoxicity (veno-occlusive disease) with internal use. Topical use is generally well tolerated; contact dermatitis is possible.

Who should be cautious

Avoid internal use in pregnancy, breastfeeding, in children, and in anyone with liver disease. Topical use is preferred.

Interactions

PA-containing herbs may interact with hepatotoxic medications and affect liver enzyme metabolism.

Frequently asked questions

Is alkanet safe to take internally?⌄

Internal use is not recommended due to pyrrolizidine alkaloid content.

What is alkanet used for?⌄

Primarily as a natural red dye for cosmetics and traditional skin preparations.

References

Alkanet on Wikidata — Wikidata link

Alkanet on NIH DSLD (US supplement label database) — NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database link

Research on Alkanet (PubMed search) — PubMed link

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Evidence-based·How we grade evidence

Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. This page is educational, not a substitute for personalized medical advice. Evidence grades are AI-assisted assessments — talk to your doctor before starting any new supplement, especially if you’re pregnant, breastfeeding, on medications, or managing a chronic condition.