Safranin-O, also known as basic red 2, is a biological stain used in histology and cytology. Safranin is used as a counterstain in some staining protocols, colouring all cell nuclei red. It can also be used for the detection of cartilage, mucin and mast cell granules.

How do you make safranin solution?

Gram Safranin Solution: Dissolve 2.5 g of safranin O in 100 ml of 95 % ethanol to make a stock solution. Working solution is obtained by diluting one part of the stock solution with five parts of water.

What Colour is safranin?

General description. Safranin O is a metachromatic, cationic dye. It is used as a counterstain in Gram staining. The stain colors Gram-negative bacteria pink to red and has no effect on Gram-positive bacteria.