Iqbal Azhar

Kohl Use in Antiquity: Effects on the Eye

Abstract Ancient civilizations used a vast number of natural substances in ophthalmic preparations. These preparations were not only used to treat and prevent eye disease, but were also applied to protect the eyes from harsh physicochemical environmental conditions as well as for cosmetic purposes. One such preparation was given the name kohl, the main constituent of which is lead sulfide, commonly known as galena. Kohl may contain certain herbs and natural substances in an ultrafine powder for application to the eyes. Its use is especially associated with ancient Egypt, one of history’s most highly developed civilizations, which endured for over 3000 years and had widespread global influence. It has been proposed that the discipline of ophthalmology may have developed in Egypt. Recent findings suggest that Egyptian eye preparations in the form of kohl led to increases in the production of nitric oxide, a chemical substance with antimicrobial properties. Nitric oxide has also been reported to be an important regulator of ocular blood flow, which is involved in controlling basal blood flow in the choroid, the optic nerve, and the retina. These findings have led to greater attention to the history, chemistry, and scientific background of kohl with regard to its effect on the eyes.Ancient civilizations used a vast number of natural substances in ophthalmic preparations. These preparations were not only used to treat and prevent eye disease, but were also applied to protect the eyes from harsh physicochemical environmental conditions as well as for cosmetic purposes. One such preparation was given the name kohl, the main constituent of which is lead sulfide, commonly known as galena. Kohl may contain certain herbs and natural substances in an ultrafine powder for application to the eyes. Its use is especially associated with ancient Egypt, one of history’s most highly developed civilizations, which endured for over 3,000 years and had widespread global influence. It has been proposed that the discipline of ophthalmology may have developed in Egypt. n nRecent findings suggest that Egyptian eye preparations in the form of kohl led to increases in the production of nitric oxide, a chemical substance with antimicrobial properties. Nitric oxide has also been reported to be an important regulator of ocular blood flow, which is involved in controlling basal blood flow in the choroid, the optic nerve, and the retina. These findings have led to greater attention to the history, chemistry, and scientific background of kohl with regard to its effect on the eyes.