Mehndi is prepared by the leaves of plant called henna, also known as cypress flower. The exact origin of mehndi is difficult to place but it has been nearly 5000 years old. Some historians think that mughals brought mehndi to India but other thinks that the origin of mehndi is India. The plant of henna which is 4 to 6 feet tall can be found in countries like Pakistan, India, Afghanistan, Egypt, Syria, Yemen, Uganda, Morocco, Senegal, Tanzania, Kenya, Iran and Palestine. The henna plant grows well in hot climate. The leaves of henna crushed into fine powder and then water is added in it.
Henna is a natural substance that's been used for centuries to create beautiful, temporary designs on the body - an art form that is called Mehndi (or Mehandi). Today, henna tattoos are still used in religious and wedding ceremonies in India, but has also gained appreciation in other countries as a beautiful art to be appreciated at any time. So, what exactly is henna and where does it come from?
Henna's Origins
Henna powder is derived from a plant (actually a bush), Lawsonia inermis, commonly found in the Middle East and other areas where the climate is hot and dry. The bush is harvested, dried, and then crushed to make henna powder. Henna itself is used for many things such as hair treatment, heat rash relief, and skin conditioner to name a few. The top leaves of the plant are best for Mehndi, while the lower part of the plant is used for the other purposes. Henna paste is what is made to apply henna art designs.
Henna powder itself is green in color, but the stain it leaves behind is usually an orange-red color. There are many suppliers now that offer henna in a variety of colors but these are not recommended. Pure henna has had little to no incident of allergic reaction. When colors are added to natural henna, reactions can be mild to severe. Black henna especially has been known to cause serious skin burns as a result of the chemicals added to it to produce the black color effect. Henna is best to be appreciated in its purest form. 
Henna Designs
Most who are familiar with henna have seen the traditional designs. These beautifully intricate patterns are similar to those used for the marriage ceremonies and other rituals. They usually adorn the hands and feet of the wearer, and require that they remain still for many hours to apply the paste and then allow it to dry. Henna color has been known to take best to the hands and feet due to their dry properties which soak up and hold the color better, but henna can be applied anywhere. How well your skin takes to the henna will depend on each individual's skin properties.
Today, henna has been done in many forms including more contemporary designs. Some contemplating a permanent tattoo might apply henna first to see if they like the look before making a permanent decision. Some just enjoy having a temporary design they know will wash off in a few weeks. Whatever your reasons might be for being interested in henna, you are delving into a beautiful form of art rich in culture. 
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