Neutral Henna, Conditioning Cassia, Colourless Henna, Cassia obovata, Senna italic or senna obovata contains a faint golden dye and is commonly referred to as "neutral henna" because it has similar benefits of henna but does not give the hair the amber colour that results with the use of henna. Oboids rich, its ability to moisturize the hair makes it natural conditioner. Same as other Cassia, it is anti-fungal and anti-bacterial and highly effective against microbes and fungi. It plays a very strong role in fighting against dandruff, eczema and psoriasis. Traditional use of Cassia obovata was also a laxative like Senna, Cassa angustifolia. The principal active components are same sennosides A and B. In Ayurveda texts, the blend of henna (Lawsonia inermis) and Colourless Henna (Cassia obovata) is called 'the two hennas'. Dermatological uses of this cassia concern the lawsone henna components.
Thin layer chromatographs show components are fixed to natural keratin turning golden light-brown or brown differing with over time of application, indicative of a diffusion process. In bleached hair diffusion is faster, absorption by hair pre-treated by hydrogen peroxide was greater than virgin grey hair, suggesting that the oboids of this cassia were chemically bound to the cysteic function of keratin. It is biphasic as several components diffused. Henna (Lawsonia inermis) combined enhances the penetration of obovata components. Hair treated by Cassia obovata get less hydrophilic, strength of the treated hair is not changed, but the cuticle scales get opened to receive colourant. Its treatment crimps the hair, acts as a sunscreen, which is bound to keratin, and provides ultraviolet protection.
Cassia obovata works with the hair's natural structure to smooth follicles without damage, making them light reflective and able to shine more. It is a natural conditioner, even when hair is very dry, highly processed or permed, it softens coarseness, smooth frizz and reduce hair breaking. As it doesn’t have components like natural silicon, it washes out of the hair completely.
