Indian name of the plant Henna is Mehndi. Henna has small white or pinkish fragrant flowers and small fruits. Henna is based on the word 'hina,' which is an Arabic name of the drug. The plant is familiar in several parts of India such as
Punjab,
Gujarat,
Madhya Pradesh and
Rajasthan. It is cultivated for commercial purposes.
The leaves contain a glucoside colouring matter and hennotanic acid used for arresting secretion or bleeding and preventing skin diseases.
The seeds of the henna plant are used in ayurvedic medicines and are effective in the treatment of dysentery. The bark of the plant is used in the treatment of liver disorders like jaundice and enlargement of the liver.
Other uses include treatment of baldness and treatment of prickly heat. Henna promotes healthy growth of hair. Henna flower cures headaches caused by the heat of the sun. Plaster made of henna flowers in vinegar is applied over the forehead for relieving head ache. Henna leaves are effective in the treatment of skin problems like boils and burns.
