Henna

Henna is a much-branched shrub or small tree of the Lythraceae family with small, glossy oval leaves, fragrant clusters of white or pinkish flowers and small round fruits. It thrives in hot, dry climates and is widely grown across India, including as hedges in Kerala.

The leaf is used. Dried and powdered, it releases a red-orange dye used for decorating hands and feet and colouring hair. Ayurveda calls it Madayantika and values it as cooling, traditionally used in hair packs and skin care preparations.