How to Mix Henna Powder

The word henna is interesting in that it can be used as an adjective to describe a reddish-brown color, as a verb to define the act of applying henna to the skin or hair, and as a noun to name the plant from which the unusual powdered dye is made. Mehndi, the art of applying henna powder in intricate patterns on the skin, has been practiced in the Middle East, Africa and India for centuries. In America, henna first gained popularity as a natural hair dye and continues to be used for temporary body adornment.

Things You'll Need

• Henna powder
• Fresh lemon juice
• Small nonmetal bowl
• Measuring spoons
• Nonmetal mixing implement
• Sugar
• Essential oil
• Plastic wrap

Instructions

1. For best results, henna must be mixed 24 hours before it is used, so be sure to plan in advance.

   Squeeze the juice from two lemons and strain.

   Pour 1/4 cup of fresh henna powder and 1/4 cup strained lemon juice into a bowl, and stir until no lumps of the dry henna powder can be seen. The paste should have the consistency of mashed potatoes.

2. Place a piece of plastic wrap over the paste. Push the wrap down gently to meet the surface of the paste and remove air pockets. Let the paste sit in a warm area for 12 hours.

3. After twelve hours, remove the plastic wrap and stir in 1 1/2 tsp. of sugar. The addition of sugar is important because it helps keep the paste moist and pliable on the skin or in the hair.

4. Add approximately 1 tsp. of essential oil. Some henna packages provide a vial of oil. If oil has not been provided for you, lavender, tea tree or eucalyptus oils are excellent and economical choices. Stir until the paste is smooth again. Cover the paste with plastic wrap as before, and let it sit for another 12 hours.

5. The dye from the henna powder will now be released, but you may need to adjust the consistency of the paste before it can be used. The finished product should be smooth without being runny; imagine a creamy texture that can be easily expelled from an applicator without dripping. If your paste is too thick, slowly stir in lemon juice 1/4 tsp. at a time until the correct consistency is met.

Tips & Warnings

• A set of wooden chopsticks makes a great tool for mixing henna paste because they are nonreactive, and the two pointy ends create a whisklike action when used for stirring.

• Neither Mehndi oil nor essential oils of clove or mustard are recommended for mixing henna paste.

Resources

• Earth Henna
• Henna Caravan