Iyarkkai Maruthuvam

                      *HENNA | MEHNDI* 

*Actions:*

        Antipyretic (fever reducing), alterative (gradually restores proper function of the body), nervine (calms the nervous system)

*Energetics:*

        Bitter, astringent, cooling, Pacifies Pitta and Kapha, may aggravate Vata (in excess) 

*Medicinal Benefits:*

*1. Relief from Headaches*

        Henna flowers cure headaches caused by the heat of the sun. A plaster made of Henna flowers soaked in vinegar and applied over forehead relieves the headaches.

*2. Eases Arthritis Pain*

        When henna is used on the hands, it helps to relax the body via the cooling effect it has on the nerves, thus reducing inflammation caused by arthritis symptoms.

*3. Treats a Variety of Skin Conditions* 

        Traditional medicinal uses for henna include being used as a coagulant for open wounds and a poultice to sooth burns and eczema. Fresh leaves may be used as a topical antiseptic for fungal or bacterial skin infections, including ringworm.

*4. Promotes Healthy Hair*

        Henna helps to improve hair health. It helps seal the hair cuticle, preventing breaking, and increasing the shine and appearance of the hair. It is also a natural treatment for dandruff.

*5. Draws out Fever*

        Henna leaves rolled into a ball with water, placed in the hand will help bring temperature down.

*6. Promotes Healthy Gums*

        Chewing on henna leaves is said to reduce the risk of gum disease and treat mouth ulcers.

*7. Reduces Pitta in the Mind*

        The essential oil that is derived from Henna, also knows as Hina, is used in India for religious ceremonies and prayer (Devotion). It is great for opening our psychic abilities, clairvoyancy, and reducing anger and irritability.

*8. Natural Treatment for Diaper Rash*

        Sprinkle a little bit of henna powder on the inflamed area to reduce heat and irritation.

*9. A Cure for Dysentery*

        Henna seeds can treat dysentery. Crush the henna seeds and mix it with ghee. Make small balls of the mix and swallow it with water to cure dysentery.

*10. A Powerful Detoxifier*

        By soaking the bark or leaves of the henna plant in water and then consuming the liquid has been connected to improved spleen and liver health.

*11. Regulates Blood Pressure*

        One of the most undervalued effects of henna is it's use for heart health. If you consume henna water or seeds, you can enjoy a hypotensive effect that relieves stress on the cardiovascular system and effectively lowers blood pressure. This can help prevent the plaque and platelet build-up in the heart and arteries, preventing heart attacks and strokes.

        The best medicine is often that which the earth gives to us.