Health and Beauty Benefits of Henna

What is henna?

The word "henna" is understood in many different ways by people around the world. It is known in the Yoruba language as laali. It is used in different parts of the world for its beauty purpose and medicinal properties.

As the only species in the Lawsonia genus, henna has many different names around the world, but they all describe the same remarkable plant, which bears the scientific name Lawsonia inermis.

It can be used in a variety of ways, including its dye form, as well as in aqueous extracts, tinctures, and ointments composed of bark, seeds, or leaves. This versatility makes henna a very valuable element in traditional medicine, especially in Ayurvedic practice.

Health and Beauty Benefits of Henna

Hair colour

Heena is mainly used as a natural herbal dye for hair. It can be used to dye the hair red or in shades of it. Henna can also be used with a combination of leaves such as cassia or indigo to achieve a neutral or deep red colour respectively.

Hair health

Using henna on our hair can help strengthen our hair and can also help seal our hair follicles, preventing dandruff and improving shine.

Can prevent hair loss

If you suffer from hair loss, using henna can help curb it. Mix the curds of the henna juice into your hair. Wait a few minutes before watching away.

Anti-ageing properties

Henna oil contains an astringent that leads some people to use its juice and oil on their skin for anti-ageing purposes. It is also believed to reduce the signs of blemishes and scars when applied to the skin.

Might heal wounds

Henna helps eliminate inflammation and also helps protect the skin from infection. It can form a protective layer against foreign pathogens and substances when applied to wounds and burns. It also has natural cooling abilities that wick heat away from the skin.

Could be anti-inflammatory

The juice derived from henna can be applied to the skin to relieve headaches. Healthy blood flow to the capillaries can be improved due to the anti-inflammatory effects of the compounds found in henna.

Can reduce sleep problems

For those struggling with insomnia or restlessness, using henna oil can help alleviate such problems.

Is Henna Safe?

There are different types of henna and most of them are non-toxic. However, always consult your herbalist or doctor before consuming henna or adding it to your skincare routine.