What is Indian tattoo ink made from?

Indian or henna tattoo ink comes from the mehendi shrub. The leaves of the plant are dried and mashed into a paste with water that has a reddish brown color. The dye eventually fades and washes off over time.

Henna tattoos are intricate body art inked onto the skin in flowing and curving patterns associated with Hindu celebrations and rituals. They are especially prominent in wedding ceremonies, used to ornament a bride and as a sign of prosperity. These tattoos date back to the 1400s when they were brought to India by the Mughals. Before that, the practice most likely began in the Middle East.