HERBAL AND AROMATIC PLANTS - 36. Lawsonia inermis (Henna)

This fascinating plant is world wide known for the beautiful colouring dye that is used by the Orientals in the colouring their hands and body. The Egyptians are said to have prepared both an oil and an ointment from the flowers for making the limbs supple. Egyptians Royalty were said to dye their hair with Henna leaves. Henna's botanical name is Lawsonia Inermis, its common is Jamaica Mignonette, Mendee, Egyptian privet, smooth Lawsonia. Its Arabic name is henna and the most popular Indian name is Mendhi.