Henna has been used for centuries as a natural form of body art and decoration for special occasions. The art of henna is practiced all around the world, from India and the Middle East to North Africa and South America. It is a beautiful, unique way to express yourself and commemorate important moments in life. Henna is a paste made from the leaves of the henna plant, which is native to the Middle East and North Africa. The paste is then applied to the body in a variety of forms, including intricate designs and symbols. When applied to the skin, the paste dries and forms a temporary, reddish-brown stain. This stain can last anywhere from a few days to several weeks, depending on the quality of the henna and how it was applied.
Henna in India
Henna is native to Arabia and Persia. But now cultivated mainly in Haryana and Gujarat and to a small extent in Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan. Main part of plant in use is leaf. Henna leaves shows astringent, antihaemorrhagic, antispasmodic, oxytocic, antifertility, antifungal, antibacterial properties which makes it popular hair conditioner as well as to treat skin infections (tinea). It has small yellow and white flowers that are very fragrant and sweet smelling.
- Scientific Binomial: Lawsonia inermis
- Common English: Henna
- Ayurvedic: Madayanti / Madayantikaa / Mendika / Ranjaka
- Unani: Hinaa / Mehndi
- Sanskrit
- Hindi / Urdu: Mehendi
- Bengali
- Marathi: Mehandi
- Telugu
- Tamil: Marudaani / Marithondi / Marudum
- Gujarati
- Kannada
- Malayalam
- Oriya
- Punjabi / Sindhi
- Assamese
- Kashmiri
- Konkani
- Manipuri
- Dogri
- Bhojpuri
Henna Hair Health Benefits
Henna leaves are useful in dysuria, jaundice, bleeding disorders, ulcers, prurigo and other obstinate skin diseases. A poultice made from the flowers helps make the limbs supple. Effective treatment for the liver and skin infections. A decoction of Henna leaves is useful as a gargle for relaxed throat.
- Natural Hair Dye: The powdered leaves are used to dye the hair. Externally, it was prescribed for promoting hair growth and for dyeing grey hair. The paste of henna leaves, boiled in coconut oil to get a darkish oil, can be used as a hair dye to blacken grey hair. The paste itself can be applied to the hair and washed away after a few hours to dye the grey hair. Washing the hair with concentrated tea extract twice a week is also considered useful in coloring grey hair to brown or black.
- The leaf contains chloroform and ethanol extracts which shows antifungal activity, so recommended in shigella, Vibrio cholerae, several pathogenic bacteria and fungi, giddiness and vertigo.
- Hair Growth: Mustard oil, boiled with henna leaves, is useful in healthy growth of hair. About 250 grams of mustard oil should be boiled in tinned basin. A little quantity of henna leaves should be gradually put in this oil till about 60 grams of these leaves are thus burnt in the oil. The oil should then be filtered through a cloth and stored well in a bottle. A regular massage of the head with this oil will produce abundant hair.
- Neutral henna when combined with chamomile adds highlights to very dark hair and is still used to bring golden highlights to brown hair.
- Blood Purifying: Henna leaves works well as blood purifying when combined other compounds. Araq-e-Juzam and Araq-e-Musaffi from Unani medicine are great examples.
- Skin Care: Oil extract of Neem and Hinaa is prescribed externally in leprosy and chronic skin diseases. Internally, an extract prepared from flowers and leaves of Hinaa is administered.
- Calming Effect: As Henna considered as cold in nature, a paste of leaves can be rubbed over soles of feet for allaying burning sensation. Use the leaves and root.
Traditional Beliefs
The art of henna has many different meanings and uses around the world. In some cultures it is used to celebrate weddings, new births, and other special occasions. In others, it is used as a form of protection and healing. No matter where you are from, henna is a beautiful way to express yourself and honor important moments in life. Henna is also a great way to explore your creative side and express your individual style. With practice, you can create intricate patterns and designs that are truly unique. Whether you are looking for a temporary way to express yourself or a meaningful way to commemorate a special occasion, henna is a beautiful way to do it.
- It is believed that, if you have been tossing and turning at night, place the leaves under your pillow to ensure a good night’s sleep. You can also do this to attract love into your life.
- A dye for the skin can be created by making a paste out of the leaves and combining it with catechu. The paste is spread on the skin and allowed to remain overnight. To deepen your connection to your spiritual essence, use Henna to draw a small heart on your forehead over your third eye. It is believed that third eye found in the middle of your forehead.
- There is one more magical property oh henna other than hair and beauty that is combine the powder with water and use it to write down all your deepest desires. Place the note in a red envelope on your altar to help them manifest.
Side Effects And Disadvantages
- Can be messy and difficult to apply.
- Can dry out the scalp, leading to irritation and itching.
- The color can fade quickly, within a few weeks or months.
- Can be difficult to remove, making it difficult to switch hair colors.
- If you have an allergy to it, you risk a severe reaction.
- Can interact with other chemical treatments, causing hair damage.
- Tannin present in it may cause stomach problems.
FAQs.
Q. How to use henna for hair growth and thickness?
Henna is a natural herb that has been used for centuries for hair growth and conditioning. It is believed to help with hair growth because it is rich in antioxidants, which help to strengthen the hair follicles, and it also helps to unclog the pores which can help to stimulate hair growth. Henna also helps to protect the hair from environmental damage, as it has a protective coating that helps to lock in moisture and keep the hair healthy. It can also help to reduce dandruff and itchy scalp, and it can help to give the hair a natural shine and luster.
- Mix fresh, finely sifted henna powder with warm water to form a thick paste.
- Apply the mixture to your scalp and hair, making sure to cover all areas.
- Cover your hair with a shower cap and leave the paste on for at least one hour, or preferably overnight.
- Rinse the paste out with warm water, then shampoo and condition your hair as normal.
- Repeat the this treatment every two to four weeks to promote hair growth and thickness.
Q. How to prepare henna as natural DIY hair color dye?
- Purchase good quality henna powder. Make sure it is a reputable brand and contains no additives.
- Mix the henna powder with warm water in a non-metal bowl to create a thick paste.
- Divide your hair into sections and apply the paste to each section, starting at the roots and working your way down.
- Cover your hair with a shower cap and leave the paste on for 2-3 hours.
- Rinse your hair with cool water until it runs clear.
- Shampoo and condition your hair as normal.
- Allow your hair to dry and enjoy your new color.
Q. How to make henna powder at home from fresh Mehandi plant leaves?
Making powder at home is relatively easy. You will need leaves, a blender, a mesh strainer, a bowl, and a spoon.
- Start by plucking the henna leaves from the plant.
- Rinse the leaves off in cool water to make sure there is no dirt or debris.
- Dry the leaves in a shaded area or in a dehydrator.
- Once the leaves are completely dry, break them into small pieces.
- Place the dried leaves in a blender and pulse until they become a fine powder.
- Place a mesh strainer over a bowl and sift the powder through the strainer. This will help remove any large pieces or debris.
- Once the powder is sifted, use a spoon to transfer it to an airtight container.
- Your homemade henna powder is now ready to use. Store the henna powder in a cool, dry place.
Q. Which is the best henna for hair and hand without chemicals?
The best henna for hair without chemicals is 100% pure henna powder. Henna powder is a natural plant-based dye that has been used for centuries to color hair. It is a safe, non-toxic and permanent way of coloring your hair, without any of the harsh chemicals found in commercial hair dyes. The best henna for hand designs is pure, natural henna powder that has been sifted to remove any debris. Look for a powder that is made from the leaves and stems of the henna plant (Lawsonia inermis) and contains no preservatives or additives.