Archaeol

/ˈɑɹkiəwɒl/ noun

Definition

A colorless organic compound found in lichens, used historically in dyes and having mild antibiotic properties.

Etymology

From Greek 'archaios' (ancient), referencing that it was extracted from ancient lichen species, combined with chemical suffix '-ol' indicating an organic compound with hydroxyl groups.

Kelly Says

Archaeol is extracted from lichens—those weird crusty things on rocks—and it was actually used to dye medieval textiles, making it one of nature's hidden color factories that chemistry is just now beginning to explore!

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