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Why Choosing Natural Dyes?

For centuries, the vibrant colours of our world were derived entirely from nature. It wasn't until the late nineteenth century, driven by the demands of mass production, that we shifted to synthetic chemical dyes. While this innovation met the needs of a growing industry, it came at a great environmental cost, with industrial pollution harming our planet's delicate ecosystems.

Choosing to work with natural dyes today is a conscious return to a more harmonious and sustainable practice. The argument for them goes beyond just environmental responsibility; it touches upon our own well-being. There is an ancient wisdom in this craft, perfectly captured by the old Indian saying, "Jahan rang hai, wahan dawai hai" (Moda Goa, Wendell Rodricks): where there is colour, there is medicine.

This speaks to the incredible properties inherent in plant-based dyes. Far from being just pigments, these colours carry the life force of their source, offering benefits like UV protection, antibacterial and anti-inflammatory qualities, and even the ability to repel insects. By embracing natural dyes, we are not only protecting our environment from harmful chemicals but also adorning ourselves in textiles that are inherently beneficial, beautiful, and alive with the wisdom of nature.

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© 2025 by Juliette Ravel Roychowdhury. All rights reserved. 

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