Henna

Henna is a dye prepared from the plant Lawsonia inermis, also known as the henna tree, the mignonette tree, and the Egyptian privet, the sole species of the genus Lawsonia. Henna can also refer to the temporary body art resulting from the staining of the skin from the dyes.

History

Henna has been used since antiquity to dye skin, hair and fingernails, as well as fabrics including silk, wool and leather. The name is used in other skin and hair dyes, such as black henna and neutral henna, neither of which is derived from the henna plant.

Preparation and application

The henna mix must rest for 6 to 12 hours before use, to release the lawsone from the leaf matter. The timing depends on the crop of henna being used. Essential oils with high levels of monoterpene alcohols, such as tea tree, cajeput, or lavender, will improve skin stain characteristics.

Safety

Though it is generally considered safe to use on the skin, some people may have a reaction to it. It is FDA approved only for use as a hair dye, not for direct application to the skin.

See also

• Lawsonia inermis
• Body art
• Hair dye

References

Henna Resources
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