Mehendi is an Indian word, translating to Henna. Henna is a plant and dye. The practice of painting intricate designs on the hands and feet is a Hindu tradition and expression of the beautiful and the sacred. It is an art form said to have originated in ancient Egypt. It is an important part of the Indian bride's makeup.
The die is panted on the skin and allowed to dry. The skin is then temporarily stained with the design which will fade gracefully over fifteen to twenty days.
The traditions date back thousands of years to the Pharos of Egypt who colored the tips of their toes with henna. Henna is said to have healing properties. It was used to help heal skin conditions, encourage hair growth hair, and reduce swelling . A beverage made from mehendi is used to heal headaches and sooth stomach aches.
The perfume of the mehendi flower is used in oils and ointments. Mehendi has chemical properties which characterize tannins, (named hennotannic acid). It has been used both internally and locally to treat conditions including leprosy, smallpox, cancer of the colon, headaches and blood loss - especially during childbirth.
