henna

A shrub, Lawsonia inermis, having fragrant reddish flowers.countable

A flower of this plant.countableuncountable

• The aroma given off by flowers has an aphrodisiac effect, especially on women. This is so particularly in the case of lilies of the valley, gardenia, frangipani, and henna.

A reddish plant substance, prepared from the dried leaves of this plant, used for temporary tattoos and hair coloring. Hair colorings range from bright red to earth brown to near black.countableuncountable

• Among Arabs, it is believed that henna rubbed on the fingers, skull, and feet produces an aphrodisiac effect.

A rich reddish-brown colour.countableuncountable

Of a rich reddish-brown colour.not-comparable

To dye or tattoo with henna.transitive