Kingdom: Plantae
Family: Lythraceae
Genus: Lawsonia inermis
Name: Henna
Plant Description:
Henna is a tall shrub that can live up to 10 years. It is a glabrous, multi-branched annual tree with small fragrant flowers that are usually have white or red stamens. The henna plant generally thrives in half shaded areas and warmer climates, usually going into hibernation in winter times. It can live in most soils but prefers porous sandy and low-acidity soil.
Cultivation:
Henna plants are usually found in oases, mountains, and residential areas, and are endemic to Asia, Africa and Northern Australia. Requiring hot climates to grow, they grow heavily in tropical environments while their cultivation has spread to countries in the Mediterranean basin with the main producers being Morocco, Egypt, Sudan, China and India.
Where can you find Henna trees in Al Ain Zoo?
Henna shrubs are spread throughout several areas of the establishment, including the Zoo entrance, the World Deserts area, the Sheikh Zayed Desert Learning Centre building and several other places in the main Zoo. Also, it planted as a fence around the tanks and others to block the area and provide a nice view.
Traditional uses:
Pulverized dried henna leaves are used to stain and color skin and hair. The powder is mixed with water and vinegar and can also be used to dye fabrics including silk , wool and leather. Medicinally, henna can be used as a topical antipyretic and for the treatment of skin infections. The leaves can also be chewed to treat mouth ulcers and gum inflammations. Henna is used in many countries throughout the region to stain and create ornamental designs on the hands and feet of women for certain events and celebrations, and has also become a neutral ingredient in the global modern beauty and cosmetics industry.