Flower Power Botany: Lawsonia Inermis, Henna
Botanical name: Lawsonia inermis. Common name(s): Henna, Mehendi, Menhdi (Hindi). Plant Family: Lythraceae (Crape Myrtle family).
Flower Power Modern Usage: Lawsonia Inermis, Henna
The leaf of the henna plant (Lawsonia inermis) contains a dye called, “lawsone” or “hennotannic acid”. Lawsone is primarily concentrated in the leaves of the henna plant. The lawsone extract from the henna plant has been used for literally centuries to dye the hair, skin, fingernails, leather and wool. The chemical reaction between lawsone and the protein keratin in skin and hair results in a strong permanent stain.
Flower Power History: Lawsonia Inermis, Henna
Did you know that the flower power of the henna plant have been used to create perfume since ancient times? The perfume oil, called an attar, is made from distilling the flower petals in water. The steam produced from the process is added to mild sandalwood oil (a base or fixative), thus blending the oils together until the sandlewood is totally inundated with the fragrance of the henna flowers. This steeping process actually allows the delicate fragrance of the flower to mature and last longer than if the oil was alone. The fragrance actually improves with age.
Natural henna perfume has experienced resurgence in recent years. Henna flowers are among the most fragrant flowers on earth. Best grown as a tender outdoor container tropical or annual and can be propagated by cuttings or seed. The fragrance is best from a distance when mixed with air.
In Asian perfumery, the henna plant flower’s essential oil is obtained from oil seeds that have been drying in the sun for several days with henna flowers thrown upon them. The oils seeds are naturally saturated with the fragrance. The oil is not only used for perfume, but it is used for hair maintenance. Henna flower oil is also massaged onto the face (to improve complexion) and body (to relieve aching muscles).
In addition to hair dye and perfumes, parts of the henna plant is also often used in cosmetic products as a hair conditioner and other preparations have included it for its reputed astringent, anti-dandruff and nail strengthening effects. Lawsone has also been used as a sunscreen.
Use all-natural skin and hair care products, such as those offered by Saba Botanical of USA. For a truly natural hair color dye, use Lustrous Henna®. Men and women who want to enhance their natural hair color, cover gray hair and desire healthy, supple hair attest to the benefits of Lustrous Henna®.
Source: Wikipedia, Plant Cultures Organization
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