Alkanna tinctoria is also known as orchanet, Spanish bugloss or Languedoc bugloss. Its name comes from the Spanish word alcana, from Arabic al-hena, after henna.
Alkanet is grown in the south of France and on the shores of the Levant.
Alkanet has a dark red root of blackish appearance externally but blue-red inside, with a whitish core.
The root produces a fine red colouring material which has been used as a cloth dye and to give colour to tinctures, vegetable oils, wines, varnishes, etc.
It was often used to improve the appearance of poor grades of port and similar wines, and to give the appearance of age to port wine corks.
It is commonly used today as a food colouring.
Alkanet is traditionally used in Indian food.