$~~~~$The art and tradition of using all-natural paste from the henna plant to create temporary henna tattoos goes back to ancient Asia and the Middle East. Over the centuries, henna tattoos 16 used in weddings and holiday celebrations because they are $~~~~$thought to carry blessings from the gods. Today, the ancient art form has found a new 17 in the hands of contemporary artists.
$~~~~$Henna Heals, an artist group based in Canada, uses henna tattoos to help women suffering from cancer feel confident and beautiful again. They draw elegant henna crowns on the women’s bare heads to help them 18 the loss of their hair after cancer treatment. Featuring floral patterns, religious symbols, and messages of hope, the painted henna crowns are amazing substitutes for the hats and wigs that the cancer patients would 19 use to cover their heads. Many women report that the henna crowns really work as a healing device, helping them build a more 20 self-image at a time when they are vulnerable and depressed. According to Frances Darwin, founder of Henna Heals, the number of artists now involved in the project across Canada and the US has grown to over 150.