Is Henna Safe? Yes And No
What is Henna?
Henna is a pigment dye. Producers extract it from the leaves the Lawsonia inermis shrub or tree. People also know the tree as the Egyptian privet, henna tree, mehendi plant, and hina.
Women in India have traditionally use henna to make temporary hand tattoos. The dye is a naturally light orange to a red, depending on how long a person applies it to the skin.
Is Henna Safe?
In its natural state henna is safe to use. Newer practices that make henna have a darker red color and now a black color have introduced toxic properties.
It is common to add lead and or mercury to commercial henna products to give it a stronger red color. Producers also add paraphenylenediamine (PPD) to natural henna, which turns it into black henna.
PPD is a coal-tar derivative that can cause blistering and scarring.
Unfortunately, you must scrutinize the products you buy. Producers often contaminate natural henna with toxic additives.
On another note:
Learn more about health and vitality supporting foods on the Dr. Sebi Nutritional Guide. »
