BEAT THE HEAT OF SUMMER WITH HENNA
Henna, also known as Lawsonia inermis, is a flowering plant that belongs to the family Lythraceae.
It is native to North Africa, the Middle East, and South Asia. Henna is a shrub or small tree that can grow up to 6 meters tall, with small, oval-shaped leaves and fragrant flowers that bloom in clusters.
Henna has been used for cosmetic purposes for thousands of years and is still popular in many parts of the world today. It is often used to create intricate designs on the hands and feet for special occasions such as weddings and festivals.
In addition to its cosmetic uses, henna has also been used in traditional medicine to treat a variety of ailments. It has been used as a pain reliever, a fever reducer, and a treatment for skin conditions such as eczema and psoriasis.
Here are some of the unknown known facts of Henna:
- Natural hair dye: Henna leaves are popularly used as a natural hair dye. It can give your hair a reddish-brown color and also nourish it. The leaves are crushed and mixed with water to form a paste, which is then applied to the hair. The dye is permanent and produces a reddish-brown color.
- Body art: Henna leaves are used to create intricate designs on the skin. It is commonly used to create temporary tattoos on hands and feet.The paste is applied to the skin and left on for a few hours to create intricate designs. Henna body art is especially popular in Middle Eastern and South Asian cultures.
- Medicinal properties: Henna leaves have been traditionally used in Ayurvedic medicine to treat various ailments. It is said to have anti-inflammatory, antifungal, and antibacterial properties. n traditional medicine, henna leaves are used to treat a variety of ailments, including headaches, burns, and skin disorders.
- Cooling effect: Henna leaves have a cooling effect on the body and are commonly used to alleviate fever, headaches, and other similar conditions.
- Nail strengthening: Henna leaves are also used to strengthen nails and prevent them from becoming brittle.
- Aromatherapy: The essential oil extracted from henna leaves is used in aromatherapy to promote relaxation and relieve stress.
- Conditioning: Henna leaves are also used as a natural conditioner for hair. The paste is applied to the hair and left for a few hours. It helps to nourish and strengthen the hair, making it soft and shiny.
- Insect Repellent: Henna leaves can also be used as an insect repellent. Burning henna leaves or making a paste with water and applying it to the skin can help keep mosquitoes and other insects away.
- In some cultures, henna is believed to have protective properties and is used to ward off evil spirits.
- Henna leaves have been used to make a tea that is believed to aid digestion, alleviate constipation, and relieve stomach pain.
- Henna leaves have a fragrant smell that is often used to scent perfumes and other cosmetic products.
- Any age group from babies to elderly can use the henna leaves. There is no gender bias where girls and boys can equally use it.
In Sanskrit, henna leaves are known as “Madayantika” or “Mehndika” (मदायन्तिका or मेहन्दिका).
Here are the names of henna leaves in different languages:
- English: Henna leaves
- Hindi: Mehndi ke patte
- Arabic: Hina
- Spanish: Hojas de henna
- French: Feuilles de henné
- German: Henna-Blätter
- Italian: Foglie di henné
- Portuguese: Folhas de hena
- Turkish: Kına yaprağı
- Urdu: مہندی کے پتے (Mehndi ke patte)
It’s important to note that while henna leaves have many beneficial uses, it can also have adverse effects for some people. It’s always best to consult with a healthcare professional before using henna for medicinal purposes.
DR RANJIMA PR
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DISCLAIMER:
Please remember the information are only meant as guidelines and in no way replace the advice or treatment provided by your medical practitioner. It is always good to seek the advice of your physician, homoeopath, naturopath, or herbalist for professional advice in any matter related to your health. This article is for information purposes only.
