Mehndi is a shrub like plant from the Middle Eastern countries is used for henna tattoo and in various henna tattoo design. It is more known as “Henna” and the art of henna tattooing has been an ancient tradition to the Middle Eastern culture. In places like India, Pakistan, Sudan and Egypt it has been a tradition and now a fashion throughout.
The henna or mehndi leaves are used in body painting or what we call as henna tattoo or temporary tattoo. People nowadays prefer to use it because it is cheaper, simpler and you can even make one and apply them your own. The henna leaves are ground and powdered and turned into paste then, applied in different body parts such as; hands, legs, feet, arms, ankles, neck, back, belly and even in toe and fingernails and in other parts of the body where you would prefer to have them.
Because henna tattoo has become a fashion, many suppliers now made henna in variety of colors but, studies showed that it is not safe. When other colors, chemicals or substances are added to henna to alter its color, there is some sort of chemical reactions that causes skin irritations which can be mild to severe in cases. Therefore, it is advisable to use henna in its pure and uncolored form.
Everyone can use henna and create and experiment any designs or you can choose one since, there are many henna tattoo design books or catalogs available in the market. Some people use the pre-made henna in tubes in the market but many still prefer to mix it their own way.Surprisingly, doing so gives rather better results. There are actually henna recipes, designs and guides in the market that can help you in doing the henna paste and applying them your own. If you want to experience making one for yourself here is a simple and effective recipe and procedure that will guide you thru the process as well as, how to apply it.
First you will need:
1 and 1/4 cups of dry and sifted henna powder
2 packets instant coffee singles
1 and 1/4 cups water
2 tablespoons lemon juice (fresh)
5 drops eucalyptus oil
5 drops clove oil
Procedures in mixing the henna paste.
1. Boil the instant coffee and water down to 3/4 cup of dark liquid.
2. Mix enough coffee (dark liquid) into the henna powder to create a thick paste. Keep on mixing until it is well blended.
3. Add the lemon juice, the eucalyptus and clove oil. Mix till well blended. Just a bit of a reminder though, the paste must not be too watery or you need to add more henna powder. It should not also be so thick or you will need to add a little more of the dark liquid or a plain water will do. Lastly, let the mixture cool for about 2 hours before using. The measurement does only for a small portion of henna paste. If you plan to use more then you can do so by doubling the measurements. Unused henna paste can also be kept for later use provided that it is sealed. It may last for two weeks if kept in a chiller and may last for two months if kept frozen.
How to apply the henna paste?
In applying the henna paste, you can choose from using a toothpick, squeeze bottle or a cone. You can buy or make your own using available material that can be made such. Then you will have to decide for the design. There are various henna tattoo design kits available in the market. It comes with a sample design and a stencil.
However, you can do it your way. Create your own design and not need for some fancy stencils and stuff and do it freehand! After applying, you must live it until the paste dries. This may take longer than the application. It may take hours and when it is finally dry; you will see the fine results you just did. Cool! The tattoo may last for 4 to 6 weeks depending on how you would care for it.
So the hard work, handwork and time spent are worth it!