حِنَّاء

Henna comes from Arabic حِنَّاء (ḥinnāʾ), naming the Lawsonia inermis plant whose leaves produce a red-brown dye. The plant grows across hot, dry regions from North Africa to South Asia.

Henna has been used for body decoration for at least 5,000 years. Egyptian mummies show henna-dyed hair; Indian brides wear elaborate mehndi designs.

Each culture has distinct henna traditions: Moroccan geometric patterns, Indian paisley and flowers, Sudanese bold black designs. The same plant, different aesthetics.

Western adoption came through 'henna tattoos' — temporary body art for festival-goers and tourists. Some 'black henna' products cause allergic reactions, giving henna an undeserved bad reputation.