The henna enters UNESCO's intangible cultural heritage.

The henna and the rituals associated with it in Arab countries, including Morocco, have been integrated into UNESCO's intangible cultural heritage, announced the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization.

This plant, whose leaves are dried, ground, and then turned into a paste, is used for tattooing, particularly on the forearms and feet of women participating in a marriage, but also for dyeing hair or bringing good luck to babies, explains UNESCO.

"The henna symbolizes the life cycle of an individual, from birth to death, and is present during the major stages of this person's life," continues the text justifying its inclusion in the intangible cultural heritage. Its use, often accompanied by oral manifestations, is linked to rules and social traditions that are several centuries old.

His motifs and drawings can vary by region, with temporary Amazigh-inspired tattoos in North Africa compared to more daring floral patterns in the Arabian Peninsula.

The henna candidacy was defended by sixteen Arab countries, including Morocco.

The intergovernmental committee for the safeguarding of intangible cultural heritage has been meeting in Asuncion, Paraguay, since Monday. From Tuesday to Thursday, it must decide on the inscription of 66 new elements presented from the perspective of community traditions, according to UNESCO.