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What is the real name of henna?

Published in Botany 1 min read

The real name of henna is Lawsonia inermis.

Henna refers to the dye prepared from the plant Lawsonia inermis, also known as the henna tree. This tropical shrub or small tree belongs to the loosestrife family (Lythraceae) and is native to northern Africa, Asia, and Australia. The leaves of the Lawsonia inermis plant are the source of the reddish-brown dye, commonly called henna, used for temporary body art and fabric dyeing.

Here's a breakdown:

  • Henna: The common name for the dye and the art form.
  • Lawsonia inermis: The botanical, or "real," name of the plant from which henna dye is derived.

Therefore, while "henna" is the popular term, the plant's scientific name is Lawsonia inermis.

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