Introduction

Histology, cytology and other related scientific disciplines study the microscopic anatomy of tissues and cells. In order to demonstrate a good tissue and cellular structure, the samples need to be stained in a correct manner. Carmine is a natural dye whose structure has not been fully explored. However, it is known that it contains aluminum ions, calcium ions to a lesser extent, proteins and sometimes silicon. It is often bound with lithium, aluminum or boron to form a complex in order to achieve satisfactory staining results. Carmine is used for various staining procedures and visualization of glycogen and mucous substances, as well as for nuclear staining and vital staining.