Hand Foot Syndrome (also known as PPE) is a reaction from using certain chemotherapy treatments (drugs). It causes burning, tingling, swelling, and/or breaks in the skin on the hands and/or feet. Henna has become widely affective at giving temporary relief to these affects, due to the cooling properties of henna. Henna has many beneficial medicinal properties. Please read more on: What is HFS and How to Prevent it?
I came across Shin’s Blog. It really brought me to tears. Please take some time to read it and you can view what Hand Foot Syndrome can do. She also has some very touching videos that you must watch. She passed away in January 2009.
Mix it
¼ cup warm water
2 tbsp henna powder
Squirt of lemon juice
Put henna powder into a bowl, preferably stainless steel, as plastic is porous. Add warm water a bit at a time, mixing well. Add a squirt of lemon juice. If you already have cracks in your skin, omit the lemon juice, as it will sting.
Apply it
Protect the area you will be applying the henna in, with plastic bags or an old towel/sheet. Apply a thin layer of henna to your bare hands, and feet, as desired. Some use a foam paint brush to apply.
Let it dry
It should take about 15-20 minutes to dry. Cover your hands and/or feet with gloves or socks, and allow to sit on the treated areas for at least 1-2 hours. Then wash off.
Best henna powder to use
Make sure you use Jamila summer crop (most current year) as this henna powder has been very effective in treating HFS/PPE.
When to use it
Use at least once a week, and whenever you feel your hands and/or feet starting to heat up.
What does it do?
Henna naturally cools the burning sensations of HFS/PPE. That often will help prevent cracks, and blisters, but be sure to follow the recommendations of using creams, and socks/gloves for best results. Henna does not help with neuropathy.
This information has been collected by the Henna Sooq, and is for informational purposes only. We not offer medical advice, but advise you to consult with your doctor regarding your henna treatments.
We do recommend using our Jamila henna powder for HFS as it’s very creamy and smooth (very easy to apply).
