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Current mood:  thoughtful Category: Fashion, Style, Shopping
The ancient practice of Mehndi painting uses henna ink as a medium for painting elaborate and intricately designed patterns onto the hands and feet. In many locales of Southeast Asia, the Middle East, and Somaliland the practice usually only includes brides. But in parts of India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh the groom may also have himself painted.A common misperception is that Mehndi is similar to tattooing. But whereas a finished tattoo's ink actually rests beneath the surface of the skin, Mehndi art stays near the surface, so it's completely temporary. Typically, the henna ink lasts from a couple of weeks to several months.Henna, the all-natural organic inkMehndi traditionally uses a dye produced by the henna plant found in some tropical areas of Africa and Asia. The dye molecule, called lawsone, binds with the skin's protein molecules.Using lawsone to paint the skin dates back thousands of years, and is even mentioned in the Biblical Song of Songs and Song of Solomon, where it's referred to as camphire. Wall paintings on the Isle of Cyprus dating back to 1680 BC have depicted women with Mehndi-like body markings.Lawsone is normally safe for people of all ages. Only in rare medical examples, such as a G6PD enzyme deficiency, can an allergic reaction present a problem. In very extreme cases, the adverse reaction can even prove fatal.The safe, easy process of henna dyeingHenna leaves are ground up and mixed with a paste containing acidic liquids such as lemon juice. As the paste is applied, the lawsone adheres itself to the skin, producing the colored marking. Generally, the stronger the amount of lawsone, the longer the dye will last. It's initially orange colored but changes to a deep sepia or dark brown after a day or two. The dyeing process itself takes only minutes.Mehndi painting is for weddings and other special occasions.The Mehndi painting is performed several days before the wedding ceremony, and often takes the form of a party similar to an American bridal shower. The bride's friends and family will sing songs and chat while the painting is performed by a trained artist. After the work is completed, the painted body part is wrapped overnight in bandages that trap body heat, helping the ink to dry and bind.Grooms sometimes receive Mehndi designs of their own. In parts of Rajasthan, the groom's designs are every bit as elaborate as the bride's.Medhndi isn't always limited to wedding celebrations, either. In some Arabic and Persian countries, the designs are applied to celebrate a new pregnancy, engagement, or even just a special birthday.DescriptionWhat is Mehndi, and why has it become so popular? This article explains how the ancient practice is catching on with the modern bride.About the AuthorMichael Kabel is a Senior Writer for My Wedding Favors. My Wedding Favors offers hundreds of elegant wedding favors, unique and practical favors, and even themed favors to show your guests your lasting appreciation. Visit us at http://www.myweddingfavors.com to see more.
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