Botanical Overview
Lawsonia inermis, commonly known as Henna, belongs to the family Lythraceae. It is a flowering plant native to North Africa, South Asia, the Middle East, and the Mediterranean region. The primary part used medicinally is the leaf, prized both for its dyeing properties and therapeutic applications. Common names include Henna, Mignonette tree, and Egyptian privet.
Energetics
Henna presents a cooling temperature and drying moisture profile. Its taste is primarily astringent and bitter, exhibiting a descending energetic direction. It is considered tonifying to the blood system.
Primary Actions
- Astringent
- Antifungal
- Anti-inflammatory
- Antimicrobial
- Dye
Indications
Western
- Skin infections
- Inflammation
- Wounds
- Fungal infections
- Hair loss
Syndromes
- Dermatitis
- Tinea infections
- Scalp disorders
TCM
No primary indications documented.
Ayurveda
- Skin eruptions
- Excess pitta
- Heat rash
Syndromes
- Rakta dusti (blood impurity)
- Pitta disorders
Unani
- Skin inflammation
- Rashes
- Pruritus
Syndromes
- Safra imbalance
- Baroodat (skin afflictions)
Constituents & Mechanisms
Active phytochemicals include lawsone (2-hydroxy-1,4-naphthoquinone), flavonoids, tannins, coumarins, and mucilage. Lawsone is responsible for the characteristic dye and antimicrobial effects.
Dosage & Preparations
- Topical paste from powdered leaves applied to skin or hair
- Infusion of leaves used externally for wounds and skin infections
Safety & Contraindications
Topical use is generally safe but may cause allergic reactions in sensitive individuals. Internal use should be approached cautiously due to potential toxicity. Henna is not recommended during pregnancy owing to insufficient safety data. Allergy to henna or related plants is a contraindication.
Astrological Correspondences
No well-supported planetary or elemental rulers are documented for Lawsonia inermis.
Selected References
- Lawsonia inermis – Henna, Plants for a Future (PFAF)
- WHO Monographs on Selected Medicinal Plants – Lawsonia inermis, WHO 1999
- Lawsonia inermis L. – Henna, Wealth of India, CSIR 2000
- Henna (Lawsonia inermis), Herbal Medicine: Biomolecular and Clinical Aspects, Brinker 2011