Henna - a truly auspicious herb

Henna, the “giving tree,” has played a role in the traditions of civilization, health, and body adornment for over 5000 years. Recognized as a dye plant, a cosmetic, a medicine, and a measure of protection from evil influences, henna has been associated with long life and happiness for thousands of years.

Here are some fun henna recipes requested at my talk at the Herb Society of America (HSA) National EDCON Conference in Nashville, Tennessee.

Henna Nail Care
Improve the plight of dry or splitting fingernails or toenails by conditioning them with neutral, uncolored henna once or twice a week. Henna paste has both antiseptic and antifungal properties and also can be applied to inflamed or irritated skin around the nails.

Nail-Conditioning Treatment
Remove existing nail polish a day or two before treatment. Remember to stir the paste each time.

½ cup (130 ml) boiled spring or distilled water, cooled to warm
½ teaspoon (2.5 g) uncolored, neutral henna powder
1 teaspoon (5 ml) plain organic yogurt (optional)
2-3 drops eucalyptus oil (optional)

1. In a plastic or glass bowl, mix neutral henna and water to form a paste. Store leftover mixture in a sealed container in refrigerator for only 2 to 3 days.
2. Using a chopstick or flat-edged toothpick, glob the henna paste on each of your clean, dry nails and cuticles. Keep paste on for 10 minutes. If you have time, put both hands in a plastic bag and cover with a warm towel for as long as possible.
3. Rinse your fingers in lukewarm water and towel-dry. Gently buff the nails with a chamois nail buffer. Then coat your nails with deep, penetrating avocado, almond or calendula oil.

Scalp Treatment
Try this updated Indian and Pakistani remedy to increase hair growth and reduce hair loss!

1 tablespoon (15 ml) henna flower oil
1 tablespoon (15 ml) jojoba extract
1 tablespoon (15 ml) calendula infused oil
½ teaspoon (2.5 ml) carrot seed oil
2 drops essential oil of clove bud
4 drops essential oil of rosemary
5 drops East Indian essential oil of patchouli
2 drops essential oil of cedarwood

1. In a 2 to 3 ounce (60-95 ml) opaque bottle, combine henna oil, jojoba, calendula and carrot seed oils. Add essential oils and shake to mix. Label and date.
2. If desired, warm the bottle of oil in a warm water bath before using. Massage a few drops into scalp before bedtime. Apply two or three times a week.

Henna Mehndi Body Art Recipe
This recipe is a specialty of Catherine Cartwright Jones.

2 heaping tablespoons (30 plus g) pure henna powder, 
sifted twice through cheesecloth
Juice of 2 lemons or limes, strained to remove pulp
Brewed coffee OR black tea

1. Add the juice to the henna powder, a little at a time, stirring until the mix is similar in consistency to mashed potatoes. Let sit overnight. 
2. The next morning, stir a little coffee or tea into the paste until the consistency is lump free and a bit softer than toothpaste. Cover and let sit until evening.
3. Test paste consistency by making patterns with a toothpick or cone on a paper towel. If too thick, add a little coffee. If too thin, add a little henna powder.

Happy henna trials!
Norma