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Henna in ancient Egypt

Henna in ancient Egypt

Henna’s historical trail begins in ancient Egypt. Modern Egypt remains one of the main commercial suppliers of the plant, as do the parts of Sudan corresponding with ancient Nubia. Egypt’s associations with henna are confirmed by its botanical nickname Egyptian privet. The term “henna” derives from the Arabic, al khanna. There is a hieroglyph, pouquer, which is believed to indicate the henna plant. The term mehndi, used synonymously for henna, derives from the Sanskrit mehandika. Much of the modern revival…

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The History of Henna

The History of Henna

Centuries of migration and cultural interaction make the task of determining henna’s exact origin a complex one. However, historians argue that henna has been used for at least 5,000 years in both cosmetic and healing capacities. Research suggests that henna was used in Pakistan, India, Africa and the Middle East. Because henna has natural cooling properties, people of the desert, for centuries, have been using henna to cool down their bodies.  They make a paste of henna and soak their…

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Brief history of henna for hair

Brief history of henna for hair

Brief History of Henna for Hair It is believed that henna has been used as a cosmetic hair dye for 6,000 years. For example, in Ancient Egypt, Cleopatra and Nefertiti were known to have used it. Other references to henna include: Indian court records from around 400 CE (Auboyer, 2002) In Spain during Convivencia (Fletcher, 1992) Listed in the medical texts of the Ebers Papyrus (16th c BCE Egypt) (Bryan et al, 1974) Listed as a medicinal herb by Ibn Qayyim…

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