Sindhoor or kumkum, a symbol of tradition that has transformed into a hidden health risk

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Sindhoor or kumkum, a symbol of tradition that has transformed into a hidden health risk

Indian culture is rich, vast, diverse, and deeply rooted in traditions. Some of the customs and rituals that were once thought to be mere rituals have scientific and health-related significance. Sindhoor is considered a symbol of marital pride and tradition among married women. Even now, many women use it regularly, and some use it during the festive season and during temple visits as a part of our tradition.

Earlier, the sindhoor was made from turmeric, lime, and other natural ingredients. These natural ingredients, if applied to the forehead, have scientifically proven benefits. But nowadays it’s all made of synthetic chemicals, these chemicals include a combination of lead oxide and mercury compounds, causing serious health hazards that include

  1. Skin allergies and rashes

  2. Greying of hair

  3. Hormonal imbalance, long-term exposure

  4. Metal toxicity in extreme conditions, if accidental ingestion occurs

Sharing real-time experience

I’d like to share two real-life instances from my own family. Both my relatives noticed premature greying of hair, especially on the forehead region where sindhoor was applied, which later spread backward. Curious about the cause, I asked them about the product details, and surprisingly, both mentioned a well-known brand, Lakme.

They later consulted dermatologists, who confirmed similar cases of allergic reactions caused by chemical-based sindhoor. The doctors advised them to immediately stop using synthetic variants and switch to safer and natural alternatives.

A thought to reflect on

Next time, when applying sindhoor, check the ingredient carefully and make sure that it’s chemical-free. Use herbal or natural formulations. Our traditions were meant to enhance health and well-being, but modernization has often replaced natural purity with harmful chemicals.

Have you or someone you know ever experienced reactions from sindhoor or similar products? Share your thoughts!

MBH/PS

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It’s concerning how traditional products like sindhoor, once symbolic of culture, are now found contaminated with harmful metals like lead and mercury. Awareness and regulation are urgently needed.

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Sindhoor, once made from natural ingredients like turmeric and lime, is now often chemical-based, containing lead and mercury. This can cause skin allergies, hair greying, hormonal imbalance, and even metal toxicity. Two of my relatives experienced premature greying from a popular brand, confirmed by dermatologists. Always check ingredients and prefer natural or herbal sindhoor to stay safe.