Christine:
For clearing leaves I have used 70% ethanol to remove the chlorophyll,
followed by a 5-10% solution of NaOH until clear. Stubborn areas can be
cleared by a brief (2-4 min) in full strength bleach. Be careful as the
tissues become delicate.
Chloral hydrate is a DEA controlled substance.
Hope this helps.
Page Owen
Connecticut College
Dept. of Botany
