Through the late 1990’s, ancient eastern skin decorating became fashionable throughout the Western world. Both the terms Henna and Mehndi have been used to describe this form of body art, yet there is confusion as to what the terms actually mean; what is the difference between Henna and Mehndi?

The word Henna has its origin in the Arabic word Al-Hinna. Henna is the name given to the actual paste used for the elaborate skin decorations as the paste is created using leaves from the Henna plant. However, in Middle Eastern Culture the application of henna paste onto skin as an art form is also referred to as Henna. Traditional Middle Eastern henna body art is simple with designs featuring graceful floral and vine patterns. Northern African Henna designs are usually also simple, but tend to present geometric shapes and designs with abstract symbols.

The word Mehndi has its origin in the Hindu word Medhi. The term Mehndi is used to specifically refer to the intricate patterns of henna applied in Indian culture. While Arabic henna designs are usually large, floral patterns on the hands and feet. Traditional Indian and Pakistani mehndi is very intricate, with dense detail. These designs involve fine, thin lines for lacy, floral and paisley patterns covering entire hands, forearms, feet and shins. Indian and Pakistani Mehndi designs are generally much more complex than Middle Eastern or African Henna designs. 

While Henna body art has been a long-standing tradition stemming from many ancient cultures dating back as far as about 5,000 years, it was not until the 12th century that henna painting spread to India. Here the art of its application became known as Mehndi. Mehndi has traditionally been used in religious and ritualistic ceremonies in India. People here normally adorned themselves during auspicious celebrations, particularly brides prior to wedding ceremonies. Traditionally, friends would apply the intricate designs on the hands and feet of the bride-to-be and her cortege. Hidden among the tangled, intertwining patterns would be the initials of the bride and groom. In some traditions in India, the bridegrooms would be painted as well – often with designs that are just as elaborate as those for their brides.

As both the Henna and Mehndi art forms became fashionable in the West throughout the 1990’s, they became known collectively as ‘Henna tattoos’. As the public became educated, the word ‘tattoo’ was used less and less since a tattoo permanently inserts pigments underneath the skin, while henna pigments sit on top of the skin. Soon Henna became the predominant term used to describe the art form.

Are you looking for something new to liven up your next party or event?
Click to contact Winnipeg’s henna artist Shahab or call (204)261-5281.