Henna Leaf Powder (Lawsonia inermis)

Finely ground dried leaves of Lawsonia inermis, Henna, the traditional natural reddish-brown dye plant of South Asia, North Africa, and the Middle East. Henna has been used for over 5,000 years for body decoration, hair coloring, and traditional ceremonial purposes. The dye comes from lawsone, a naphthoquinone compound that binds to keratin in skin, hair, and nails.

Important Safety Warning - "Black Henna"

True natural henna produces orange to reddish-brown colors only. Some commercial products marketed as "black henna" contain PPD (paraphenylenediamine), a chemical dye that can cause severe allergic reactions, chemical burns, scarring, and permanent skin damage. PPD reactions can sensitize individuals for life. Always verify natural pure henna. Avoid any "black henna" or "instant henna" products. Authentic henna only colors orange-to-red.

Key Facts

Botanical name

Lawsonia inermis

Family

Lythraceae

Native region

South Asia, North Africa, Middle East

Color compound

Lawsone (binds to keratin in skin, hair, and nails)

Natural color range

Orange to reddish-brown only

Common uses

Mehndi body art, hair coloring, traditional ceremonial use

What is Henna?

Henna is a small flowering shrub native to North Africa, the Middle East, and South Asia. The leaves contain lawsone, the natural orange-red dye compound. Henna has been used for over 5,000 years for body decoration (mehndi), hair coloring, and traditional ceremonial purposes - particularly in South Asian, Middle Eastern, and North African weddings, religious holidays, and seasonal celebrations. Mehndi (henna body art) is one of the oldest documented forms of decorative body art.

How to Use Henna

Hair dyeing: mix henna powder with warm water (or acidic liquid like lemon juice for stronger color), let stand 6-12 hours for dye release, apply to hair, leave 1-4 hours, rinse. Mehndi/body art: same paste, applied in decorative patterns with a fine applicator; let dry for 4-12 hours; the longer the paste stays on skin, the deeper the color. Color develops over 24-48 hours after application.

Frequently Asked Questions

What color does henna produce?
Natural henna produces only orange to reddish-brown colors. Any "black henna" or other colors contain added chemical dyes.

Why is "black henna" dangerous?
"Black henna" typically contains PPD (paraphenylenediamine), which can cause severe allergic reactions, chemical burns, and permanent skin damage.

How long does henna body art last?
Typically 1-3 weeks, fading as skin exfoliates.

How long does henna hair color last?
Permanent until the colored hair grows out or is cut; new growth needs re-application.

Can I use henna on gray hair?
Yes; henna covers gray and produces orange-red color on white/gray hair.

What's "mehndi"?
The South Asian / Middle Eastern tradition of decorative henna body art, particularly associated with weddings and celebrations.

This product has not been approved by the Food and Drug Administration and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. We recommend that you consult with a qualified healthcare practitioner before using any herbal products, particularly if you are pregnant, nursing, or on any medications.