Henna is an evergreen flowering plant, belonging to the algae family

The origin of the use of henna for cosmetic purposes began in Egypt in 1200 BC, not India

It was initially used to dye nails

Henna also has many medicinal uses. It was used to treat headache and fever

It is also used as a deodorant and antiperspirant

Benefits of using henna for hair

1. Improves the health of your scalp

Henna is known for its incredible anti-fungal and anti-bacterial properties. These qualities are really helpful when it comes to keeping your scalp clean and infection-free. In addition, it also provides a feeling of coolness and calmness, which helps prevent itching and inflammation

2. Moisturizes your hair deeply

Using  henna hair masks  with other natural moisturizing ingredients is a great way to ensure that your hair stays smooth and frizz-free for a longer period of time. You can use ingredients like curd, honey and even eggs to reap all  the benefits of henna  .

3. Reduces hair loss

Another great benefit of  using henna for hair  is that it helps  balance the pH levels of the  scalp, unclogs pores and controls the secretion of excess sebum. These qualities go a long way in improving the health of your scalp and keeping your follicles healthy. All of these factors combined  to reduce hair loss  and promote hair growth.

4. Strengthens hair

Henna is packed with plenty of powerful hair-loving nutrients, all of which help nourish and strengthen your hair. It protects hair from environmental harmful factors by forming a protective layer. In addition, it governs the hair cuticle, which not only prevents frizz but also gives your hair a soft and silky sheen.

How to use henna for hair

There are several ways you can  use henna for your hair  , but it is especially used as a natural hair dye. Here’s how to dye your hair with henna.

Step 1:  Soak some henna powder in water overnight. You can even use black tea or coffee decoctions instead of water. These ingredients will help intensify the color of the henna upon application. Mix it until it forms a thick paste.

Step 2:  The next morning, wash your hair and apply the henna paste to clean, product-free hair and leave it for two to three hours.

Step 3:  After two hours, rinse your hair well with water only until your hair is completely clean. Do not use any shampoo right away.

Step 4:  Allow the color to settle in your hair for 24 hours and then wash your hair with shampoo and conditioner to get rid of the remaining dye if any.

Aside from using it just like hair dye, henna is also an incredible ingredient for making  nourishing hair masks . Read on to find some simple recipes

1. Henna + Banana Hair Mask

• To make this hair pack, start by mixing henna and water to make enough paste to cover your hair strands and let it rest overnight.
• The next morning, add an over-ripe mashed banana and mix well.
• Apply this hair mask to the entire length of your hair and leave it on for five to seven minutes before washing it out with a gentle shampoo.

Why It Works  Bananas are commonly used in a lot of DIY  hair conditioning masks  , thanks to their intensely moisturizing and nourishing properties. When mixed with the hydrating properties of henna, it works like a dream to soften and moisturize even the most dry and damaged strands.

 2. Henna + fenugreek hair mask against dandruff

• Take some curds in a bowl and add about 2 tablespoons of fenugreek seeds to it.
• Leave it to soak overnight.
• The next morning, transfer the mixture to the bowl of a blender, add 2 tablespoons of henna powder to it, and grind everything into a smooth paste.
• Apply it to your hair and scalp and leave it on for 10 minutes.
• Wash your hair with an anti-dandruff shampoo and conditioner.
• Repeat this process once a week for best results.

Why this works – The  soothing properties of henna soothe any inflammation and itching, while fenugreek and curd help eliminate  dead skin and dandruff  .

3. Henna + amla anti-hair fall hair mask

• Start by mixing three tablespoons of henna powder and two tablespoons of amla powder.
• Crack an egg into this mixture and add a little lemon juice to it.
• Mix all the ingredients together until they form a thick paste and apply this hair mask to your hair and scalp.
• Leave it on for about an hour and wash it off with a gentle shampoo.

WHY THIS WORKS This  hair mask is an excellent source of protein, a very important nutrient needed to reduce hair loss and promote  healthy hair growth.

Frequently asked questions about henna for hair:

Q: How long does henna color stay on the hair?

A:  Although this depends on your lifestyle and how often you wash your hair, in most cases, henna will last on your hair for four to six weeks.

Q: Does henna make your hair thicker?

A.  Henna sticks to the hair cuticles and weighs down your hair. This makes your hair appear thicker over time and reduces breakage.

Q: How often can I use henna on my hair?

A:  If henna does not show any side effects, you can use it as often as you like. Since  henna is a natural hair dye  , it does not damage or damage your hair and is therefore completely safe to use.