The multi-functional henna

Natural Henna has health advantages and will not lead to blisters, sores or scars on the skin. It benefits the skin and hair by keeping it cool. Henna has also been used for centuries as an antiseptic, astringent, antibacterial, antifungal, antispasmodic (relaxing), antipyretic (cooling), topical sunscreen, antiperspirant, a treatment for sunburn and eczema, in the prevention and masking of foot odour, as a skin moisturiser and conditioner, and as a treatment for alopecia (hair loss). It is also used for conditioning and colouring the hair and to make decorative designs on the palms and feet. It does not have any side effects and is safe to use.

Chemical additives are dangerous

On the other hand, ‘synthetic’ henna is bad. Dyes or chemicals are mixed with natural henna for better colouring and the usage of this ‘henna’ causes rashes or red sores in some people especially with sensitive skin. Test a small amount of henna on your skin before using it to check for any allergic reaction.

What is popularly called Black Henna is made by adding a chemical ingredient usually a coal-tar dye called ‘PPD’ or para-Phenylendiamine to the paste. The chemical burn caused by PPD causes blisters on the skin, swelling and itching, sometimes leaving a permanent scar. It also causes skin allergies, rashes and reactions. ‘Black Henna’ is harmful, producing ‘napthoquinone sensitivity’ reactions. If within three hours of applying henna, a person becomes very itchy, wheezes or has a tight feeling in the chest; it is an allergy.

Every application of ‘black henna’ is harmful, since the toxins remain in the body for life. The reaction may not be visible but PPD penetrates deep into the skin, reaching the dermis (living cells) and passes into the blood stream. Once PPD enters the blood stream, it may affect the kidneys. Repeated or prolonged inhalation exposure may cause asthma. Those who prepare PPD-based black henna are at risk too. PPD never leaves the body; in fact, it builds up over time, leading to permanent injury and allergies.

Shonelle warns, “The henna that we get in the market today is compound henna. Natural henna is mixed with a compound containing metallic salts to produce a full range of colours. Compound henna makes the hair unsuitable for future treatment with any product that includes hydrogen peroxide. While neutral henna can be used to add gloss and lustre, compound henna dries the hair and continued use leads to harsh colour, and a very horrible frizz.

The next time you use henna make an enlightened decision. Go for the genuine stuff, as it is good for your health and does not lead to any harmful after-effects.