ShrubCultivatedPerennialMedicinal

Lawsonia inermis L.

Mehndi

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Description

Lawsonia inermis is a much-branched evergreen shrub or small tree, usually 2–6 m tall. Branches are slender and often become thorny in older plants. Leaves are simple, opposite, entire, and elliptic to obovate, usually 1–4 cm long, smooth, glabrous, and dark green. Leaves contain the pigment molecule lawsone responsible for henna coloration. Flowers are bisexual, fragrant, small, and arranged in large terminal or axillary panicles. Flowers are white, cream, or pinkish, with four petals, numerous stamens, and a superior ovary. Fruits are small globose capsules containing numerous tiny polygonal seeds.

Ethnobotany & Uses

Cultural Importance

Leaves used for Temporary body decoration, Hair dye.

Medicinal Uses

Traditionally used for Skin problems, Wounds, Inflammation. Active compounds Lawsone, Flavonoids, Tannins.

Economic Importance

Important commercial crop for Henna powder production, Cosmetic industries.

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Where it grows on campus

North-East Campus1

individuals mapped across 1 zone

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