Choosing the right mehndi for your hair can indeed be a bit perplexing, given the various types available. The key to finding the right mehndi is understanding how different types affect your hair and what your specific needs are. When it comes to the traditional application of mehndi, or henna, for hair, we’re usually referring to Lawsonia inermis, which is a natural hair conditioner and can also impart a reddish tint depending on your original hair color.
For your needs, given that you seem concerned about your hair being oily at the roots and dry at the ends, I would recommend looking into “neutral henna,” which actually comes from the Cassia Obovata plant, not Lawsonia. This type of mehndi doesn’t color your hair but can improve hair texture, giving it more volume and shine. It’s not uncommon that people worry about the coloration; with Cassia Obovata, that risk is minimized.
If you are concerned about excess oil at the roots, cassia mehndi may help balance the scalp’s oiliness due to its natural body-enriching properties. Applying a combination of neutral henna with a bit of amla powder can help nourish the hair and balance the doshas affecting your scalp. Amla is revered in Siddha-Ayurveda for its ability to enhance scalp health, thereby helping with dandruff and promoting a more balanced oil production.
It’s essential to prepare the henna paste properly. Mix the neutral henna with warm water and let it sit for a couple of hours so the natural compounds activate. Adding lemon juice can enhance the conditioning effect, but because your ends are dry, you might wanna use half the recommended amount to avoid over-drying. Apply to freshly washed hair and leave it on for about 60-90 minutes before rinsing out.
As for brands, look for those that explicitly state 100% natural ingredients with no artificial additives or chemicals. Try doing a patch test first to ensure there’s no adverse skin reaction. If after trying neutral henna you find it doesn’t meet all your needs, you might explore other herbal blends that incorporate herbs like brahmi or shikakai for added nourishment without altering your hair color.
Ultimately, listen to your hair and ensure whatever mehndi you use aligns with your natural balance and lifestyle. If issues persist, or if there’s any doubt, consulting with an Ayurvedic practitioner directly may provide additional insights specific to your prakriti (body constitution).
