How can you make a highlighter ink from turmeric extract?

Materials:

- Fresh turmeric root

- Grater

- Fine-mesh strainer

- Glass jar or bowl

- Isopropyl alcohol (rubbing alcohol)

- Glycerin

- Small funnel

- Empty highlighter pen or glass dropper bottle

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Turmeric:

- Peel the fresh turmeric root and grate it finely.

2. Extract the Turmeric Juice:

- Place the grated turmeric in a glass jar or bowl.

- Pour isopropyl alcohol over the grated turmeric, just enough to submerge it.

3. Let it Steep:

- Cover the jar and let the mixture sit for at least 24 hours. This allows the turmeric to infuse the alcohol with its color and properties.

4. Strain the Extract:

- After 24 hours, use a fine-mesh strainer to strain the turmeric extract. Press the grated turmeric gently with a spoon to release any remaining liquid.

5. Add Glycerin:

- To the strained turmeric extract, add a few drops of glycerin. Glycerin will help to stabilize the color and act as a binder for the ink.

6. Test the Color:

- Before filling your empty highlighter pen or glass dropper bottle, test the color of the turmeric ink on a piece of scrap paper. It should be a bright yellow color.

7. Fill the Highlighter Pen or Bottle:

- Using a small funnel, carefully fill your empty highlighter pen or glass dropper bottle with the turmeric ink. Make sure not to overfill it.

8. Use and Enjoy:

- Close the highlighter or dropper bottle and let the ink settle for a few minutes before using it. You can use it like a regular highlighter on various types of paper.

Remember that this turmeric ink may not be as permanent as store-bought highlighter inks, and the color intensity might vary depending on the concentration of turmeric in the extract. Also, test the ink on a small area before using it on important documents to avoid potential staining.