Henna is a very ancient art, dating back over 5000 years. It is used in many traditions, cultures and countries. It is so old that historians cannot say for sure where it came from. It is used as a way of self-expression and for joyful occasions. This essay will provide information on the history, uses, medicinal uses, traditions and beliefs of henna and the different styles in which henna can be painted. What is henna? Henna is the word that describes the process of painting patterns on the body and also refers to the plant Lawsonia Inermis. Lawsonia Inermis is the plant used to make henna paste. It is a flowering tree that grows 12 to 15 feet tall, so it is not a large tree, more like a large shrub (Petkewich). It grows in hot, arid regions of the world such as India, Pakistan and North Africa. The plant contains the most dye when grown at temperatures near 120 degrees Fahrenheit, but wilts at temperatures near 50 degrees Fahrenheit. Henna art is a very ancient tradition, central to many cultures in South Asia and the Middle East. For example, no wedding in India is complete without a night where all the girls from the bride's family come to put on henna. Not only is it important in Indian weddings, but it is important in almost all Middle Eastern, African and African weddings. South Asian Weddings. When we talk about putting henna on our body, it is not simple at all, there are many styles, strokes and techniques that artists have to use to make sure they don't make mistakes. Types of Henna Styles The 3 most common styles of henna. North African, Middle Eastern and South Asian... in the center of the map... from the Middle East, Asia and Africa. Henna is a lot of things. It's a medicine, it's an art, it's a plant, and it's a way to bejewel yourself without jewelry. And in many cultures henna has become a very important part of life, for every ceremony, every holiday, every festival, henna is used. Henna is now used in the United States for temporary tattoos, so it has also become a healthy, painless way to get tattooed. Many people tattoo their partner's name, but if they break up, that tattoo will always be there. Henna is a much better option for tattooing because it is not permanent. Why would anyone get tattooed with harsh permanent ink when there is a natural and safe alternative? Why would someone use painkillers for mild pain, when they can use henna? Until now, henna was considered an art form, but it can be so much more if used effectively.