This study reports the use of natural dyes as histochemical stains in microscopic investigations. Preparation of Rubia cordifolia, Curcuma longa, Bixa and Nyctanthes powder has been described. The histochemical property of natural dyes has been displayed. The effect of different solvents like methanol, ethanol and acetone in increasing the binding efficiency of the stain has been determined. The use of natural dye, a low cost and as an effective nuclear stain has been experimented. Experiments carried out in this regard with Allium cepa proved that natural dyes can be excellent nuclear stain. The metachromacy of natural dyes in differentially staining various tissue components has been brought out. An alternative staining procedure using natural dyes for mitotic studies and chromosome analysis has been described. The ecofriendly dyes can be recommended as an alternative to the popularly used, costly and harmful synthetic dyes
