Surma or Kohl has been used for medical and cosmetic purposes since time immemorial. Since then, it has been utilised to treat a variety of eye illnesses and to improve eye health.

Surma kala has been classified as an ultra-fine powder of galena, a "kohl stone." It also contains certain medicinally active components including pearls, gemstones, and plants. Herbs such as neem, saffron, and fennel extract, among others, are used to protect and treat various eye problems.

Surma kala is also effective in protecting the eye from the sun's damaging rays, according to recent studies. Surma's black and gleaming galena particles form a thin layer on the eyes' lenses, protecting them from direct contact with the sun's harmful UV radiation.

Surma is being used as eye makeup by men and women of all genders. Furthermore, Surma is thought to be of good quality if it gives a burning sensation.

If galena has not been added, it is usually black or grayish black in hue, or white or grayish white in color.

Benefits of Surma Kala - Surma Black - Eye Surma - Kohl Stone (galena):

  • It is applied to the eyes to keep them cool and clean.
  • It makes the eyes bigger.
  • Improves eyesight and eye strength.
  • It shields the eyes from the sun's damaging rays.
  • Treats watery eyes (fluxes), inflammation, and eye pain.
  • Make-up for the eyes.
  • It shields the eyes from dust and snow.
  • Used to ward off a 'evil eye' in an infant's eye.
  • Used to prevent and treat eye disorders such as blepharitis, trachoma, cataract, conjunctivitis, and others.
  • Because it is germicidal, it eliminates bacteria that accumulate on the sides of the eyes as sludge.
  • It can be used to control the bleeding after circumcision for sanitary reasons.

Surma Application – Dangerous or Not

Surma has been linked to greater blood lead concentrations, which can lead to lead poisoning, according to study. This is particularly hazardous for youngsters and pregnant women.

The study discovered that the explanation for this is the Surma's use of lead sulphide. Prolonged use may result in excessive lead accumulation in the body. As a result, it can have an impact on the baby's brain and bone marrow formation.

At the same time, certain studies have been published that refute the use of Surma in the eyes directly related with lead toxicity. They claimed that the unfavorable effects of Surma were caused by incorrect application.

These investigations also demonstrated that lead is not absorbed via the trans corneal route and hence should not be linked or blamed for lead poisoning following its application.

The researchers considered that the primary mode of entrance is ingestion. By licking or sucking infected hands, lead can be absorbed. Children are prone to rubbing their eyes and sucking contaminated fingertips. Adults absorb black surma if they don't wash their hands or use utensils after applying Surma.

How to Use Surma on the Eyes

Surma is a thin powder that spreads easily. As a result, it is recommended to first dip the Surma stick in olive oil or water before placing it in the Surma container.

Make use of a Surma stick made of wood, bronze, or glass.

Before applying, use the same side of the eye's hand, i.e., if applying to the right eye, use the right hand. Holding the stick parallel to the eye, insert it into the inner tip of the lower eyelid. Close one eye and pull out parallel to the eyelids.

Conclusion: 

Surma has various benefits for the eyes. Some studies have showed that using Surma can be hazardous to one's health. Furthermore, some research has showed that the unfavourable effects of Surma are caused by inappropriate application.

As the saying goes, prevention is better than cure. So, thoroughly washing hands after applying Surma to the eyes can help to avoid Surma's potentially harmful effects.