Botanical atlas
Henna
Lawsonia inermis
Henna has been prized for thousands of years across North Africa, the Middle East, and South Asia, where its crushed leaves release a reddish-orange dye called lawsone. Egyptian mummies, including that of Ramesses II, were found with henna-stained hair and nails, and brides across many cultures have had their hands and feet adorned with henna paste for luck and celebration. Beyond decoration, the leaves and their cooling paste were traditionally applied to the scalp, palms, and soles in hot climates, valued as much for their soothing feel as for their color. It remains one of the oldest continuously used body art and hair care traditions in the world.
In tradition.
Henna has been prized for thousands of years across North Africa, the Middle East, and South Asia, where its crushed leaves release a reddish-orange dye called lawsone. Egyptian mummies, including that of Ramesses II, were found with henna-stained hair and nails, and brides across many cultures have had their hands and feet adorned with henna paste for luck and celebration. Beyond decoration, the leaves and their cooling paste were traditionally applied to the scalp, palms, and soles in hot climates, valued as much for their soothing feel as for their color. It remains one of the oldest continuously used body art and hair care traditions in the world.
Traditional preparations.
A classic paste used across many cultures to condition the hair and scalp and impart a warm reddish tint.
Traditionally, about 100 grams of pure henna powder is mixed with warm water to a yogurt-like consistency, left to rest for 6 to 12 hours to release its color, then applied to clean, dry hair and left on for 1 to 3 hours before rinsing thoroughly.
In many traditional households, a thin henna paste was applied to the palms and soles during hot weather or festive occasions for its cooling, soothing feel on the skin.
About 2 to 3 tablespoons of henna powder is blended with cooled water or brewed tea into a smooth paste, spread thinly over clean skin, left until dry, and then gently brushed away.
Safety.
Pure henna applied to skin or hair is generally safe, but people with G6PD deficiency, including infants, can have serious reactions and should avoid it. Avoid 'black henna,' which is often adulterated with PPD and can cause severe allergic reactions and scarring; henna is not meant to be taken internally.
Our sister app HerbLens identifies henna from a photo and keeps its full botanical portrait: growing guide, harvest notes, and look-alike warnings.
View on HerbLensAsk HerbSense how henna is traditionally used and what to know before trying anything at home.
Ask about HennaHerbSense shares traditional herbal knowledge for education, not diagnosis or treatment. Herbs can interact with medicines and conditions. Speak with your doctor before acting on anything here, and seek care promptly for anything severe, sudden, or worsening.