The History of Henna Tattoos
In the ancient art of painting henna tattoos, known variously as Mendhi, Mehndi or Mehendi, an artist draws intricate designs and patterns on skin using a dye made from the henna plant. Depending upon dye strength, the tattoo ranges in color from dark orange to burgundy or brown. These impermanent tattoos generally remain on the skin for several weeks before fading away.
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History
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The henna plant is native to Egypt and other parts of Northern Africa. The earliest known usage of henna dye on skin may be traced back 5,000 years to ancient Egypt, where the hands and feet of dead Pharoahs were dipped in dye prior to mummification to ensure a smooth trip to the afterlife. The Egyptians brought henna plants to India in the 12th century A.D., and the art of henna tattoos soon flourished. In the 17th century, Empress Mumtaz Mahal was the first Indian ruler to be painted with henna. Now, henna tattoos are available worldwide. Salons specializing in henna tattoo painting exist across the United States.
Function
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Most people view henna tattoos as a decoration only, though the tattoos can take on additional meaning in some cultures. Brides wear henna tattoos in traditional Hindu wedding ceremonies. Dark henna stains symbolize the commitment of the bride and groom to each other. A long-lasting stain indicates a long-lasting marriage.
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Features
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To make tattoo dye, henna artists dry and crush the leaves of the henna plant, then mix them with oils and lemon juice to form a thick paste. They draw designs upon the skin using the tip of a paste-filled cone. The paste remains on the skin until it dries and crumbles away. The tattooed area is carefully wrapped to protect the fresh tattoo, and the skin is not washed for 24 hours to give the dye time to set.
Benefits
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The henna plant is also used as an ingredient in some hair dyes and skin conditioners. Henna tattoos, which can be beautiful and highly detailed, often feature floral patterns or repeating geometric shapes, though design options are unlimited. Because henna tattoos are not permanent like ink tattoos, they make a great temporary skin design option. Henna dye is inexpensive and widely available. While henna tattoos may be applied professionally in salons, individuals who wish to create their own tattoos may purchase henna tattoo kits online or at some boutiques, bookstores or import stores.
Warning
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The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has not approved the use of henna on skin and has received reports of skin damage from the use of products labeled as henna. In addition, henna mixed with commercial hair dye and marketed as "black henna" or "blue henna" can cause severe allergic reactions in some individuals.
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References
- Photo Credit stephcarter: Flickr.com
