Healing Herb of the Week: Henna

This fragrant herb yields a dark-red dye that was popular among Egyptian women and is still used in chemical-free brown or chestnut hair dyes. It was also used in other cosmetics and for dying fabric.

Renowned botanist Dr. James A. Duke reports that mummies exhumed after 3,000 years in a tomb still had traces of henna dye on their nails! Henna contains lawsone, an active antibacterial and fungicide often used to treat fungal infections of the nails.

Women across Asia have dyed their hands and fingernails with henna throughout the ages as both a symbol of beauty and a protection against fungal infections. If you're feeling creative, you can try henna at home. Inexpensive henna kits are widely available, complete with stencils that mimick traditional designs. Check the box before you buy. Many kits use synthetic substitutes for the actual herb.

Comments: 15

Jodi G. Apr 15, 2008, 1:39pm EDT

where can you get seeds for the plant itself?

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Vivian P. Apr 15, 2008, 1:50pm EDT

Thanks this is interesting

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☆ ƒåitĥ ☆ Apr 15, 2008, 1:52pm EDT

This is a very informative article, Sandy - thank you.

It would be a perfect addition to my Hands & Feet group too, so I'd love it if you joined it and posted this article there!

Thanks so much.

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Elaine A. Apr 15, 2008, 2:30pm EDT

I have dyed my hair with Henna, it can get messy, but my hair feels so nice afterwards

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Marie L. Apr 15, 2008, 2:46pm EDT

Thanks for the wonderful information!

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Amy H. Apr 15, 2008, 6:27pm EDT

Thanks for posting this to the group: We comment back Tag, your turn.
We also gave your content a 10. If you allowed ratings on your content. Have a great Tuesday!

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Marilyn is looking for whatever there is. N. Apr 16, 2008, 3:29am EDT

So true - Sallys Beauty Supply sells the Henna for Hair Dye.

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Krissy spreading my wings hoping to soar W. Apr 17, 2008, 2:03am EDT

This comment is to let you know that this content has reached at least ten comments, and as such has been removed from Comment Speedway! Congratulations!

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Karolyn Q. Apr 20, 2008, 8:16am EDT

Interesting article with great information. Thank you!

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☆ ƒåitĥ ☆ Apr 23, 2008, 6:15am EDT

Hi again, just wanted to drop in to tell you THANKS for posting this cool article to my 'Hands & Feet' group. :o)

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Steph A. May 15, 2008, 1:59pm EDT

I remember doing this in college...

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Stinastina J. Sep 1, 2008, 10:06pm EDT

I have been using henna for years . I love the red color and the fact that it is all natural. It conditions my hair and makes my greys look like red highlights. I used to use Jamila Henna but I have found better results with Reshma or Godej Nupur which you can get for a couple of dollars at the local Indian store or on my site:

http://www.stinastina.ecrater.com

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Healing Herb of the Week: Henna

Comments: 15

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