Last verified: today
Henna Powder
Also known as: Lawsonia inermis, mehndi, natural henna, henna dye
Evidence under review. — Not yet rated
Traditional plant dye used cosmetically. Limited safety data; linked to allergic reactions and rare blood disorders.
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What it does
Henna powder comes from the dried leaves of the Lawsonia inermis plant and has been used for centuries as a natural dye for skin, hair, and nails. The available research does not document any...
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Evidence quality
Evidence base hasn't been formally rated yet. See research below.
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Clinical dose
No established dose (insufficient research data)
What the Science Says
Henna powder comes from the dried leaves of the Lawsonia inermis plant and has been used for centuries as a natural dye for skin, hair, and nails. The available research does not document any clinically proven health benefits from henna powder as a supplement. The published case reports focus almost entirely on adverse reactions — including allergic contact dermatitis and, in rare cases, hemolytic anemia after ingestion.
What It Doesn't Do
No evidence it treats any medical condition. No proven anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, or detox benefits from the provided studies. Don't assume 'natural' means safe — ingesting henna powder has caused serious blood disorders. 'Pure' henna is not automatically allergy-free.
Evidence-Based Benefits
Henna products — especially black henna — frequently cause severe allergic contact dermatitis due to PPD contamination.
Weak EvidenceEffective at: Any topical exposure
Supporting studies (click to view on PubMed):
Ingesting henna powder has caused serious hemolytic anemia requiring emergency treatment, even in people with normal G6PD levels.
Weak EvidenceEffective at: Any ingested dose
Supporting studies (click to view on PubMed):
Absorption & Bioavailability
Unknown — no pharmacokinetic or absorption data in the provided studies.
Red Flags to Watch For
- Ingesting henna powder has been linked to non-immune hemolytic anemia, even in people without G6PD deficiency — a potentially life-threatening blood disorder.
- Products labeled 'henna' are frequently adulterated with para-phenylenediamine (PPD), a chemical that can cause severe allergic reactions, keloid scarring, and long-term skin damage.
- Allergic contact dermatitis from henna use can cause blistering, hyperpigmentation, and scarring that may be permanent.
- Herbal henna products may contain unlisted ingredients; the provided research explicitly warns about 'undefined ingredients' in herbal preparations.
- Prior exposure without a reaction does NOT guarantee future safety — sensitization can develop after repeated use.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does Henna Powder do?
Traditional plant dye used cosmetically. Limited safety data; linked to allergic reactions and rare blood disorders.
What is the effective dose of Henna Powder?
No established dose (insufficient research data)
Is Henna Powder safe?
Ingesting henna powder has been linked to non-immune hemolytic anemia, even in people without G6PD deficiency — a potentially life-threatening blood disorder.
What doesn't Henna Powder do?
No evidence it treats any medical condition.
Research Sources
- PubMed
- NIH DSLD
This information is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. Always consult a healthcare professional before starting any supplement regimen. Last updated: 2026-07-05