What vegetable dye is commonly known for producing reddish highlights?

Henna is a vegetable dye that is widely known for its ability to produce reddish highlights, particularly on hair and skin. Derived from the leaves of the Lawsonia inermis plant, henna has been used for centuries in various cultures for body art and hair coloring. When applied to hair, henna interacts with the keratin to create warm, reddish tones that can vary in intensity depending on the natural color of the hair and how long the dye is left on.

The dyeing process occurs because henna contains lawsone, a dye molecule that binds with proteins. This results in a long-lasting color that can be both striking and natural-looking. Additionally, henna not only colors the hair but also conditions it, making it a popular choice among those looking for a more holistic approach to hair care.

In comparison to the other options listed, indigo typically produces a blue-black shade when used alone, beetroot can create a range of colors including a reddish hue but is not primarily used for hair dye, and citrus does not function as a dye for hair. Thus, henna stands out as the most suitable choice for achieving reddish highlights.