Let's learn some words first!
Lawsonia Inermis: Scientific Name
Le Henné: French Appellation
Al Hinae: Name in Arabic
Neqacha/ Hennaya: Henna designer
What is Henna and Where Does it Come From 
Henna is a plant that grows in hot climates such as Egypt, India, and Africa. In Morocco, Henna is mainly produced and cultivated in the regions of Ouarzazate, Zagora, and Tata communes, located in the middle of the oasis of the Darâa region, and the Assa and Zag communes in the Guelmim Oued Noun region. Henna is harvested by hand three times per year, between May and October. The leaves are dried and ground into a fine, bright green powder that can be used for various purposes. Henna powder is natural, pure, clean, and without any chemical additives.
Henna's History
The art of Henna is not new; it has existed for centuries in Africa, India, and the Middle East. Evidence of Henna designs has been found on mummies, and it has also been documented that one of the beauty icons, Cleopatra, used Henna for her skin care and cosmetics purposes. This proves that Henna has been around for more than five thousand years.
Henna Culture in Morocco
Henna plays a significant role in Moroccan culture, which is rich in customs and traditions. Henna tattoos are an essential part of Moroccan lifestyle and an expression of love and happiness. Henna has been present in Morocco since the times of the early nomadic Berbers. It is often associated with wedding rituals, births, and religious celebrations. In general, Henna tattoos are done the day before any important events, and they are believed to promote "baraka" or "blessings" and "luck." Henna tattoos are not just for specific occasions; they also have an aesthetic role, and some women tattoo their hands and feet with Henna only to take care of themselves and feel their beauty. Henna is also a hospitality and love language; guests are warmly welcomed with a cup of tea and leave the host's house with skillfully applied Henna designs on their hands. It is a beautiful and authentic way to express love.
There is no academic training required to become a Henna designer; it is an art and a cultural heritage passed down from generation to generation and practiced only by women. Henna tattoos are still very common and have resisted Morocco's modernization.
How Henna Can Be Used
Henna's benefits are not limited to skin and hair. It is also used as a bio-coloration in the carpets and leather industry, as well as for some cosmetic and medicinal purposes.
Henna for Hair:
To create a Henna hair mask or conditioner, make sure to have natural Henna powder with no chemical additives. The mask can be composed of Henna powder, oil, rose water, or any other ingredients that suit your hair type. It helps to make your hair stronger, brighter, and shinier. It is safe to use and will not damage your hair, but it could change its natural color, especially if you have blonde hair.
Henna for Skin:
Instead of modern masks and scrubs, try a Moroccan scrub made from Henna powder mixed with Moroccan black soap and rose powder. Enjoy a Moroccan hammam with this simple recipe, which has a wonderful effect on the skin; it unifies the skin color and makes it shine and glow.
In conclusion, Henna is a plant with a rich cultural history and many uses. It is a symbol.
