Plant Information

Common Name: HENNA
Scientific Name: Lawsonia inermis
Alternative Names: Mignonette tree, Egyptian privet.

Package FormatN/A
PriceR123.00

Lawsonia inermis

Description

  • Perennial
  • Henna is native to India, the Middle East and the Mediterranean region.
  • A mystical herb in the East for centuries, the red colouring produced from the leaf was considered to represent the blood and fire of the earth and to bond mankind with nature, giving rise to its use to dye nails, hands, feet and hair.
  • Ancient Egyptian mummies were found with nails, fingertips, palms and soles dyed with henna.
  • In addition to dyeing hair, it was also used to dye beards and moustaches, and the manes and tails of horses.
  • Henna was introduced to Europe at the end of the 19th century and is an important constituent of hair tints and conditioners to this day.
  • It is an evergreen shrub up to 5m with dark green leaves.
  • Small, white to pink highly scented flowers are borne in summer, followed by capsular fruits.
  • Henna needs well-drained, sandy soil in sun.
  • Remove dead wood and trim to shape in late spring.
  • It is frost tender and in colder climates it can be grown in a container, to bring indoors in winter.

Parts Used

  • Leaves, bark, flowers and oil.

Medicinal Uses. It is said that

  • Henna leaf is used mainly to treat wounds, sores and skin diseases (including leprosy).
  • It is gargled for sore throat and taken internally in case of diarrhoea, dysentery, stomach ulcers and tapeworms.
  • The main use in modern times is as a colouring agent for hair and nails – and traditionally also for hands and feet, especially for brides.
  • Powdered leaves of various grades are added to shampoos and hair dyes to give attractive reddish or brown tints, depending of the natural colour of the hair.

Other Uses

  • The lilac-scented oil is used in perfumery.
The information contained within this website is for educational purposes only. This site merely recounts the traditional uses of specific plants as recorded through history. Always seek advice from a medical practitioner.

Mountain Herb Estate, and its representatives will not be held responsible for the improper use of any plants or documentation provided. By use of this site and the information contained herein you agree to hold harmless Mountain Herb Estate, its affiliates and staff

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