Contents

What is Henna

Botany

The henna is a plant and is botanically known as Lawsonia inermis, a plant indigenous to northern Africa and India. It has since been grown and cultivated in many of the world's continents, Americas, Australia, as well as Africa and Asia. It is used to produce orange, red and brown dyes, which are obtained from ‘hennatonic acid’ present in its crushed leaves.

History

Henna is an ancient Art of body decoration, an art practiced as early as the Pharoanic civilisation of Egypt. Evidence suggests that the ancient Egyptian Pharoes used henna during the mummification process as well as for cosmetic purposes. Today we find this natural body art practised throughout the world. In India henna or mehendi as it is known, is used as part of the traditional wedding ceremonies and hence part of the eastern culture. Very fine and intricate henna designs are drawn onto the hands and arms to beautify the bride. Throughout the African continent henna is used for cosmetic purposes. In Europe and America it has become a natural alternative to tattooing, and a method of self expression.

How long will Henna last on the skin?

Depending on the skin colour/type, henna can last up to four or five weeks. The dye in Henna dyes the top later of the skin. The colouring gradually fades with time and exfoliation of the skin. Certain parts of the body take longer to exfoliate such as the palms of the hands and the soles of the feet and the colour will therefore last longer.

Is it painful?

Henna is a painless and natural alternative to tattooing sometimes referred to as Henna tattoo. Henna is a natural herb when combined with water, and applied on to skin will leave a rich orangey/brown stain. Unlike tattooing henna does not puncture or pierce the skin. In fact it is completely natural, it is simply absorbed by the skin.

Back to top

K’s Henna Gallery

Back to top

Contact Information

E-mail address

kakoo@shaw.ca

Telephone

(604) 583 7184

Back to top

Current Projects

   Go to the listing of Current projects that will have Kakoo's Participation.

Back to top

K’s Henna Art Information

Get Hennaed by contacting Kakoo at (604) 583 7184. House calls are made in the Greater Vancouver area for a minimum guaranteed order of CD$ 100.00 . So collect a few friends who would like to be Hennaed too. Alternatively, you may get Hennaed at K’s home workshop in Surrey by prior appointment. (It may be good idea to have someone available to drive you back to allow time for your Henna to dry). Keep an eye on Current Projects on this page to find out which upcoming fairs will have K’s representation. 

Back to top

Personal Interests

   Custom Sterling silver jewellery

   Painting

   Charcoal sketching

   Culinary Arts

Back to top

Last revised: 18 August 2002