In parts of Asia and Africa, temporary tattoos are made with henna. Mendhi (also Mehandi, Mehendi) is another name.

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Henna comes from the plant Lawsonia inermis. It is made into a paste and applied to the skin with a jacquard bottle (aka jac bottle), mylar cone, syringe, carrot bag or brush. The dyed area is covered for several hours to allow the dye to set. The design can last for several months.

To make the paste, henna leaves, flowers & twigs are ground into a powder and hot water is added--sugar and oils may also be added.. After mixing the henna tattoo ink is allowed to set until the dye is released. This can take from several hours to several days depending upon the temperature. The colors of henna are red, brown, and black; other colors can be made by using indigo, cloves and lemons.

Henna tattoos are associated with celebrations, such as weddings, family get togethers, and to celebrate a birth. The traditional designs are intricate patterns, usually applied to the feet and hands.

One could argue that henna tattoos aren't "real tattoos" because the ink is not inserted into the skin with a needle or other sharp device, and because it is not permanent.

The origin of henna use as a body decoration goes back at lease 8,000 years to Neolithic people in Catal Huyuk. Written evidence of henna use in rituals come from three thousand years ago in China.

Gallery:

The henna plant

Henna tattoo design on hand.