What natural resource did many African tribes use to color their hair?

Many African tribes historically used red earth as a natural resource to color their hair. This practice is deeply rooted in cultural significance and was often associated with beauty, identity, and social status. Red earth, or ochre, contains iron oxide, which provides a vibrant reddish color that's visually striking and culturally meaningful. It has been used not only for hair coloring but also in body art and rituals, showcasing its importance in various African traditions.

The other options, while they may have cultural applications in different contexts, do not specifically match the historical use of red earth by many African tribes for hair coloring. Charcoal is primarily used for its cleaning properties or as a natural dye but does not have the same cultural significance as red earth. Plant dyes and fruit extracts are also used in various regions for their color properties, but red earth holds a unique place in the practices of numerous African tribes.