Is Crystal Violet vegan?

Crystal Violet

Vegan

Crystal Violet is a triarylmethane dye used as a histological stain and in Gram's method for classifying bacteria. It exhibits antibacterial, antifungal, and anthelmintic properties and was formerly used as a topical antiseptic. It remains listed by the World Health Organization and is a fully synthetic compound.

Also known as Basic Violet 3, Gentian Violet, Hexamethyl Pararosaniline Chloride, Methyl Violet 10B
CAS number 548-62-9
EC number 208-953-6
CI number CI 42555
Last reviewed 3 June 2026

Sources

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