| Chemicals | Single | Double | Triple | Function |
| Ethylene glycol | 250 ml | 250 ml | 250 ml | solvent |
| Distilled water | 750 ml | 750 ml | 750 ml | solvent |
| Hematoxylin | 2 g | 4 g | 6 g | dye |
| Sodium iodate | 0.2 g | 0.4 g | 0.6 g | oxidizing agent |
| Aluminum sulfate | 20 g | 40 g | 80 g | mordant |
| Glacial acetic acid | 20 ml | 20 ml | 20 ml | pH control |
Dissolve ethylene glycol in distilled water.
Add hematoxylin, then sodium iodate.
Add aluminum sulfate and acetic acid
Stir for 1 hour at room temperature.
Filter if necessary.
Staining Characteristic
Progressive
Suggested Use
Single strength for cytology.
Triple strength for immunohistochemistry counterstain (dilute 1:5) for 30 seconds and H&E (dilute 1:5) for 5 minutes.
Note
This recipe gives clear and sharp nucleus staining with little background. Good for both immunohistochemistry counterstain and H&E. This solution is also alcohol and mercury free so it is good for IHC counterstain when AEC substrate is used. When triple strength is used, dilute 1:5 with distilled water before use.