Reviving the use of plant dyes for sisal (Agave sisalana) fibres in a Brazilian artisan community

Maria Cristina Teixeira Braga Messias; Maria Auxiliadora Drumond

doi:10.18472/SustDeb.v17n1.2026.58328

Authors

Maria Cristina Teixeira Braga Messias PhD in Natural Science, Full Professor, Department of Biodiversity, Evolution and Environment, Federal University of Ouro Preto, Ouro Preto, MG, Brazil https://orcid.org/0000-0003-0300-9038
Maria Auxiliadora Drumond PhD in Ecology, Professor, Department of Genetics, Ecology and Evolution, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.18472/SustDeb.v17n1.2026.58328

Keywords:

Dyeing plant, Ethnobotany, Eco-friendly products, Natural dyes, Traditional knowledge

Abstract

Sisal fibre handicrafts, common in tropical regions, traditionally relied on plant-based dyes. However, these have largely been replaced by synthetic dyes, contributing to the loss of traditional knowledge.
This study aimed to document plant species historically used to dye sisal and assess the potential for
reintroducing natural dyes in a Brazilian artisan community. An ethnobotanical study was conducted through interviews and participatory dyeing workshops with 154 artisans selected via the snowball sampling method. Although artisans relied exclusively on synthetic dyes, they recalled 33 plant species that had formerly been used for dyeing. The trials expanded the range of natural dye options for sisal
and renewed artisan nterest in producing market-aligned colours. The adoption of eco-friendly, nontoxic, low-cost natural dyes that add value to their crafts also strengthened community engagement.
Efforts like this, especially in regions rich in plant and cultural diversity, help preserve traditional practices and support more sustainable artisanal production.

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Author Biographies

Maria Cristina Teixeira Braga Messias, PhD in Natural Science, Full Professor, Department of Biodiversity, Evolution and Environment, Federal University of Ouro Preto, Ouro Preto, MG, Brazil

Agronomist (Federal University of Viçosa), PhD in Natural Sciences (Federal University of Ouro Preto). Full Professor at the Federal University of Ouro Preto, in the Department of Biodiversity. Works mainly in the following areas: ethnobotany, agroecology, medicinal plants, flora of campos rupestres, and restoration ecology.

Maria Auxiliadora Drumond, PhD in Ecology, Professor, Department of Genetics, Ecology and Evolution, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil

Full Professor at the Federal University of Ouro Preto, in the Department of Biodiversity. Agronomist (Federal University of Viçosa), PhD in Natural Sciences (Federal University of Ouro Preto). Works mainly in the following areas: ethnobotany, agroecology, medicinal plants, flora of campos rupestres, and restoration ecology.

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