Biological Name : Lawsonia inermis
Family : Lythraceae
Synonyms :
- Hindi – Mehndi
- Sanskrit – Mendika
- English – Henna
- Tamil – Marithonali
- Marathi – Mendhi
- Gujarathi – Medi, mendi
- Telugu – Gorintaku
- Bengali – Mehndi
- Kannada – Mayilanchi
Mehendi is a medium sized much branched shrub. It contains white fragrant flowers.
It is grown cultivated throughout the India.
The useful parts of the plant are leaves, bark, root and fruit.
Properties:
- Astringent
- Aromatic
- Cooling
- Anti-bacterial
- Anti fungal
Phytochemicals:
The phytochemicals which are present in the henna are phenols, glycosides and anthroquinones etc.
Forms of use:
It is used in the form of paste, decoction and powder.
Medicinal uses:
Skin diseases:
- The leaves of the plant are used as prophylactic against skin diseases by applying the paste on the affected part.
- It has anti fungal properties and it can be applied on nails or any affected part for 15 days continuously to cure fungal infection.
- Extra indulgence in water should be avoided.
Other Uses:
- The paste of the leaves is used in headache and burning sensation in the feet .
- The powder is applied locally on burns and boils.
- The decoction of the leaves can be used as a gargle for sore throat.
- The leaves act against tubercular and other bacteria and also in typhoid and haemorrhagia.
- It acts as a natural hair dye.
