Dyes used for persimmon dyeing in traditional folk crafts in China

The dyes used in China traditional folk craft persimmon dyeing come from persimmon.

Persimmons are rich in natural tannins and gums, and gradually solidify after dyeing, so that pigments can be more firmly attached to fibers. Specifically, the dye used for persimmon dyeing is persimmon juice, also known as persimmon paint, which is made from green persimmons through pressing, fermentation and extraction. This persimmon paint can be used to dye cotton, hemp, silk, wool, bamboo, wood, leather paper and other natural materials.

In addition to persimmon itself, persimmon skin, persimmon leaves, persimmon stems and other parts can also be used as dyes in persimmon dyeing process. These parts can also be extracted with substances with dyeing effect, such as tannic acid and colloid. Generally speaking, the dyes used in persimmon dyeing process are environmentally friendly, natural and healthy, and also contain rich cultural connotation and artistic value.

Persimmon was first recorded in the Book of Rites.

"Compendium of Materia Medica" and "Rejuvenation of Materia Medica" recorded that "it can enter the heart, lung and large intestine meridians", which is a traditional medicinal material with the same origin of Chinese medicine and food. Persimmon can clear away heat and toxic materials, moisten lung and relieve cough, reduce swelling and soften hardness, strengthen spleen and replenish qi, nourish stomach, harmonize middle energizer and astringe intestine to stop bleeding. In terms of greening, persimmon trees have a long life span of more than 300 years, with shady leaves in late autumn and early winter.

Frost leaves are dyed red. After the leaves fall in winter, persimmons are still red, and a tree with red fruits adds beauty. It is an excellent landscape tree. Fruit is often made into fruit after astringency is removed. After proper treatment, they can be stored for several months. Persimmons can also be processed into persimmon cakes, which can be used as a substitute for white sugar.