Hematoxylin is derived from which part of the plant Haematoxylon campechianum?

Hematoxylin is indeed derived from the heartwood of the plant Haematoxylon campechianum, commonly known as the logwood tree. The heartwood is the dense inner part of the trunk, which provides structural support and is typically more durable than the younger, outer sapwood. In the case of the logwood tree, the heartwood contains hematoxylin, a compound that has significant dyeing properties and is used extensively in histology for staining tissues.

This utilization stems from hematoxylin's ability to interact with cell nuclei, allowing for better visualization of tissue sections under a microscope. The choice of heartwood as the source is important because the concentration of hematoxylin is highest in this part of the tree, making it the most efficient and effective source for the dye. The other parts of the tree, such as the leaves, roots, or flowers, do not have the same levels of hematoxylin and are not used for this purpose. Understanding the specific part of the plant that provides this compound is crucial for historical and modern practices in histopathology and histology.