Making mehndi dark can indeed be affected by various factors, including your prakriti and body heat, as these can influence how well the henna binds to your skin. Since your friend mentioned body heat, they’re on the right track. Your body heat or pitta influences how well mehndi absorbs into the skin. If your hands are generally cool, try warming them slightly before application as this can help stimulate a better reaction.
The quality and freshness of the mehndi cones are crucial. Often commercial cones contain low-quality henna or unnecessary chemicals that can hinder the resulting stain. Look for natural, freshly sourced henna cones—avoid any that promise immediate results, as these often contain artificial dyes.
As for preparation before application, rubbing a bit of mustard oil or eucalyptus oil onto clean palms can enhance the depth of color. These oils act by opening the pores and creating a conducive environment for the mehndi to penetrate effectively.
Mixing the mehndi with a little sugar and lemon juice paste can also help the paste stick better and provide a darker shade. It’s vital to allow the paste to completely dry, then scrape off gently, avoiding any water contact for at least 8-12 hours—water acts against the darkening process.
Post-application, fuming your hands with clove smoke is a traditional technique that many find effective. Hold your hands over cloves heating in a pan, ensuring you maintain a safe distance to avoid burns. This, combined with heat, can enhance the color intensity.
It’s crucial that within your daily rhythm you also ensure your agni is balanced, as digestive imbalances can sometimes reflect on skin and hair health, including mehndi uptake. Foods that support pitta, like cooling and moist foods, may indirectly benefit this process.
Remember, avoid washing your hands with soap or using too much moisturizer immediately after removal. Stick with these practices, and over time, you’ll refine what works best for your unique body constitution.
