Ancient Herbarium — Detailed RecordFR · EN
Henna
Lawsonia inermis
Please read before use: the information below describes traditional and informational uses — it does not replace the advice of a healthcare professional. If in doubt, pregnant, breastfeeding, undergoing treatment, or considering use in children, seek advice before use.
Enhanced precautions for this plant: Never confuse natural henna with "black henna" which often contains paraphenylenediamine (PPD), responsible for sometimes severe allergic reactions. Not recommended for people with G6PD deficiency (favism), as topical or internal use may cause hemolysis. Avoid any internal use without advice from a healthcare professional, as the plant is traditionally used only for external application. Perform a preliminary skin test and avoid application on damaged skin or in young children.
Paste for topical/hair application — Dried and powdered leaves
Traditional henna paste
Mix henna powder with warm water or an infusion (tea, lemon juice) until obtaining a smooth paste, then let rest for several hours to release the pigment. Apply to hair or skin, leave on, then rinse thoroughly. Dosage to be validated with a healthcare professional or recognized pharmacopoeia before use.
Decoction — Dried leaves
Toning foot bath
Boil a handful of dried leaves in water for a few minutes, let cool to lukewarm, then use as a foot bath. This use remains external and occasional according to tradition. Dosage to be validated with a healthcare professional or recognized pharmacopoeia before use.
Poultice — Fresh leaves or rehydrated powder
Soothing poultice
Crush fresh leaves or rehydrate powder to form a thick paste, apply locally on healthy skin for a limited time, then rinse. Dosage to be validated with a healthcare professional or recognized pharmacopoeia before use.
Where to find it
Sourcing the plant
Henna powder can be found in herbal shops, Middle Eastern grocery stores, and natural cosmetics specialty stores; black henna with additives must be carefully avoided.
Harvest season
When to harvest
The leaves are traditionally harvested at the end of summer, dried in the shade before being ground into fine powder.
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