Danger ALERT: Commercial sindoor can put you at risk of these 8 health conditions!

Putting sindoor or vermilion by Indian women holds a great significance in Indian society. As it symbolizes a woman’s marital status, this auspicious tradition is being carried on since ages. According to Hindu mythology, sindoor must be applied by a married woman for her husband’s good health and longevity. But, is there anything more to this tradition? As is often the case, traditions root themselves in logic, and it appears that even the seemingly neutral sindoor can affect a woman's health.

THE TRADITION: The tradition of applying vermilion has been passed on since ages, and for more than 5,000 years in Indian culture. It is believed that this tradition existed in the Puranas, Lalitha Sahasranamam and Soundarya Lahharis.

IS IT JUST A TRADITION? So, now the question is: Is putting sindoor just a tradition or does it hold a scientific purpose too? Scholars say that the red colour of vermilion is a symbol of female energy. This is just not a ritual but a practice to stimulate good health.

THE HEALTH BENEFITS: As vermilion is made up of turmeric and lime, it helps in easing stress and strain. This also keeps your brain active and alert.

THE ASTROLOGICAL BENEFITS: Astrologers are of the belief that Mesha Rashi, which is also referred to as the House of Aries, is located on the forehead. Mars, which is red in colour is the Lord of Mesha. Applying red sindoor is believed to be auspicious and a symbol of good fortune.

WHAT YOU SHOULD BE AWARE OF: Traditionally, vermilion was made up of turmeric, lime and other herbal ingredients which were actually good for health. But nowadays, it can be prepared with red lead and mercury, which are harmful to the body. Hence, if you choose to apply sindoor, be sure of what you it is made up of.

IT MAY CAUSE SKIN ALLERGY AND RASHES: The chemicals used to prepare red colour powder can cause hair loss, skin rash and itching. Also, it should be noted that mercury sulphite content can be responsible for causing skin cancer.

EFFECTS ON KIDNEY AND BRAIN: You may not know it but if vermilion is consumed or inhaled, it can cause food poisoning and could impact the brain too.

OTHER HEALTH HAZARDS: The harmful chemicals in vermilion such as powder crude lead, artificial dyes, other synthetic dyes, mercury sulfite and rhodamine B dye can lead to hereditary disorder, dandruff issues and itching. Some manufacturers even use lead tetroxide for its distinctive red colour and this is extremely dangerous for health.