Ratanjot / Alkanet Root Bark

Latin- Onosma echioides, Jatropha curcas, Alkanna Tinctoria

Widely used in an Indian Lamb Curry called “Rogan Josh”to colour the dish.

The root of the ratanjot plant is the primary part used for various purposes. It is dried and then ground into a powder.

Chemical constituents

Ratanjot contains a variety of chemical compounds that are believed to be responsible for its potential health benefits. These include:

- Alkannin: A red dye that gives ratanjot its characteristic color.

- Shikonin: A naphthoquinone compound with anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties.

- Tannins: A group of astringent compounds that may help reduce inflammation and bleeding.