History of Toxicology and Environmental HealthToxicology in Antiquity II
2015, Pages 68–78
Chapter 7 – Kohl Use in Antiquity: Effects on the Eye
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.
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.
Keywords
- Egyptian civilization;
- ancient civilization;
- kohl;
- galena;
- lead sulphide;
- ophthalmic preparations;
- nitric oxide;
- antimicrobial
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