Henna, Ingredients & Safety

What is Eucalyptus Oil?

Eucalyptus oil is the most commonly used essential oil in Indian henna paste. Its terpenes help lawsone penetrate the skin, giving a darker, longer-lasting mehendi stain.

Eucalyptus Oil explained

In India it is often sold as nilgiri oil. Artists mix a small measure into the paste, and some clients rub a drop on the dried paste before scraping it off.

It has a strong smell and can irritate some people. Pregnant clients, young children and anyone with sensitive skin may prefer a paste with lavender or minimal oil.

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Related mehendi terms

Essential Oils in HennaEssential oils in henna, often called "terps" or mehendi oil, are plant oils rich in monoterpene alcohols - such as eucalyptus, cajeput, tea tree or lavender - that are added to paste to help release dye and deepen the stain.Dark Mehendi StainA dark mehendi stain is a deep maroon or reddish-brown colour achieved with fresh natural paste, leaving it on for 6-12 hours, sealing it with lemon-sugar, keeping the area warm, and avoiding water for several hours after removal.Henna PasteHenna paste is the smooth, toothpaste-like mixture of henna powder, an acidic liquid such as lemon juice, sugar and essential oils that artists fill into cones and apply to skin to create a mehendi design.Henna Patch TestA henna patch test means applying a small dab of the paste to the inner arm and waiting 24-48 hours to check for redness, itching or swelling before getting a full design. It is especially useful for sensitive skin and children.

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