Malachite green also is used as a direct dye for silk, wool, jute, and leather and to dye cotton that has been mordanted with tannin. Prepared from benzaldehyde and dimethylaniline, the dye occurs as lustrous green crystals soluble in water and in alcohol. However, the dye has generated much concern regarding its use, due to its reported toxic effects. The toxicity of this dye increases with exposure time, temperature and concentration. It has been reported to cause carcinogenesis, mutagenesis, chromosomal fractures, teratogenecity and respiratory toxicity.