The Original Cosmeceutical?

The Original Cosmeceutical

Henna  (Lawsonia inermis) is a tropical perennial shrub or small tree native to  Africa, Asia and Australia with small leaves and flowers (that vary  from red to cream), followed by fruits that are small brownish capsules.
 

The  main use for the Henna plant is for production of the Henna dye that is  used in dying and ornamenting skin, hair, fingernails, as well as  fabrics such as silk, wool and leather.
 

Henna is also applied to  the hair, not only for the color, but also for promoting healthy hair,  improving hair shine and strength, and reducing dandruff.
 

 Its use has dated back thousands of years, especially in India, and it is known as one of the oldest cosmetics in the world.

Amazingly,  its traditional use of application to the hands, feet and hair was not  only for personal adornment, but also for health benefits, such as  protecting against fungal pathogens and cooling the body.
 

Beyond  its use as a dye, it is also enjoyed as an ornamental plant, especially  for its interest and sweet rose-like scent of its flowers. It is also  useful as a hedge plant and windbreak due to its dense growth.
 

The twigs and fibers are also used in basketry and toothbrushes and the wood for making small implements.
 

Henna also has a history of use in traditional medicine, with many historical uses.
 

In  Ayurvedic medicine it is used as a nervine and alterative and it is  also used as an astringent and used in cases of digestive disorders,  dysentery, diarrhea, and sore throats, as well as diabetic foot  disorders and ulcers.
 

An essential oil is also extracted for use  in perfumery, with a lilac-like scent. An oil can also be extracted  from the seeds, which is used locally for anointing the body.
 

A  recent clinical study found the oil to be useful in reducing pain in  chronic sciatica. A few other studies have found benefits of henna  application on such applications as contact dermatitis, radiodermatitis,  and hand-foot syndrome prevention.
 

Through scientific  investigation, a wide range of pharmacological activities have been  found, including antimicrobial, antioxidant, anti-diabetic, antifungal,  immunomodulatory, hypotensive and astringent activities.
 

#ethnobotany #medicinalplants #henna #cosmetics #cosmeceutical #india #ayurveda 

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