The first advice that comes our way when we discuss our hair problems with our mothers and grandmothers is Henna. This is because henna has been used to counter hair problems for ages. Henna renders several benefits, foremost being maintaining the good hair health. But before getting into the benefits, lets take a brief look at the source, the history behind its usage and how it works.
Henna was initially referred to the plant Lawsonia inermis. The name found its origin from the local Arabic name for the plant “hinna”. But these days the name also applies to the dye that is prepared from this plant for temporary colouring of skin, hair, nails and also fabrics. The colour is obtained from the leaf. Meaning the staining agent lawsone only brings out colour when it is released from the leaf. Lawsone is a burgundy coloured compound that has an affinity to bind with proteins.
Henna has been used for a long time in history. Its history dates back to the bronze age. Yes, the bronze age! Since then it has been used to dye our skin, hair and even fabric. Women of the 19th century really loved henna It was used even back then in celebration of a festival or an auspicious occasion. But one of its most popular uses was to dye the hair orange red!This was noted very long ago at the Indian court and then followed up even by the Roman court. Since then with traditions that are ever evolving, even the styles have developed their distinctive flavour.
Now that we a brief idea of how long henna has been around, its time to find out why?
Henna is commonly applied as hair packs. So here are 3 packs to answer your questions on how to apply henna to hair.
This hair pack can be used both for colouring as well as for conditioning purpose, the longer you leave it on, the deeper the colouring effect.
If you’re looking to further condition your hair, you can also add 1 beaten egg into the pack just before application. If you don’t like the smell of the egg, then you can add 2 tablespoons of fresh yogurt or 2 tablespoon of essential oil of your choice.
This pack can be applied every two weeks to add shine and helps in increasing hair growth as well as in increasing the volume and strength of the hair. Leaving you with the magical henna hair effect!
Another way to use henna to promote healthy growth of hair is by using it with mustard oil.
Regular massage with this oil will lead to reduction in hair fall and increase in hair growth. This oil can be stored for a month.
Lemon juice or a teaspoon of fresh curd can also mixed with oil before massaging it to the scalp for better results.
[ Read: How To Use Protein Pack For Hair ]
Henna also comes to rescue when we talk about the most common hair problems – dandruff and dry, itchy scalp. Regular usage of henna not only cures dandruff but also prevents it from coming back.
A healthy mane is every girl’s dream and to get shiny and lustrous locks, we tend to use a lot of products with chemicals that do more harm than good. So instead of using synthetic products, use Henna for hair. Go ahead and give your hair the much needed love.