What is Anjankal (Surma Stone)?
Anjankal (Surma Stone), also known as “Kohl Stone” or “Antimony Sulfide (Stibnite)”, is a naturally occurring mineral traditionally used in Ayurveda, Siddha, and Unani systems of medicine—especially for eye health and beauty. It is called Anjanakal in Tamil and Surma in Hindi/Urdu. Click For More Product
Traditional and Medicinal uses of Anjankal (Surma Stone)
1. Eye Health
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Strengthens vision: Regular application is believed to sharpen eyesight.
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Reduces eye irritation: Soothes red, itchy, or inflamed eyes.
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Prevents infections: Antibacterial properties help fight conjunctivitis and other minor infections.
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Coolant for the eyes: Provides a cooling effect, especially beneficial in hot climates.
2. Natural Cosmetic
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Used as Kajal (Kohl) for beautifying eyes.
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Enhances the brightness and definition of the eyes.
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Traditionally applied to infants’ eyes to protect them from the evil eye and to improve eyesight.
3. Antiseptic & Anti-inflammatory
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Helps reduce swelling or styes around the eyelids.
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Known for mild anti-microbial action, especially in purified form.
4. Traditional Therapeutic Uses
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In Siddha medicine, it is used in combination with herbs to treat:
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Chronic eye diseases
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Night blindness
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Eye strain from long hours of reading or exposure to light
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Sometimes used in Ayurvedic Anjana Karma (medicated collyrium application).
5. Detox & Purification Support (Post-Purification)
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Believed to help clear toxins from the head region through the eyes.
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Used in some detoxifying rasayana (rejuvenation) therapies. Click For Purchase
Safety Warnings
1. Toxicity in Raw Form
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Raw Anjankal contains Antimony Trisulfide (Sb₂S₃), which can be toxic if not purified.
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May contain heavy metals like lead or arsenic, especially in unregulated products.
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Unsafe for direct application, especially on delicate areas like the eyes.
2. Must Be Properly Purified (Shodhana)
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Traditional purification (Shodhana) is essential to remove toxic elements.
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Without proper purification, it can damage eyesight, irritate the eyes, or even lead to poisoning over long-term use.
3. Use in Infants & Children
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Though traditionally used as kajal for babies, modern health experts advise against it unless certified safe.
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Risk of heavy metal exposure is higher in infants.
4. Avoid Synthetic or Commercial Surma
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Many commercial surma products contain unpurified lead or antimony, which are highly dangerous.
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Only use lab-tested, certified Ayurvedic/Siddha products from trusted brands.
5. Do Not Mix with Chemicals
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Do not mix Anjankal with modern eye drops, creams, or cosmetics.
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It may react with other ingredients and cause irritation or harm.
6. Medical Advice Recommended
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Always consult a Siddha or Ayurvedic physician before using Anjankal, especially if:
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You have existing eye conditions
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You wear contact lenses
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You are pregnant or lactating
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Who Can Use Anjankal (After Proper Purification)
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Adults with healthy eyes – For cosmetic use (Kajal) or mild vision improvement.
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People with weak eyesight – Under medical supervision, it may be used in herbal formulations to improve vision.
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Individuals with mild eye strain – Due to reading, screen time, or dry weather.
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Traditional medicine users – Those following Siddha, Ayurveda, or Unani therapies under guidance.
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Postpartum women – Traditionally used for beautification and cooling, but only in safe, tested form. Click For Purchase
Who Should NOT Use Anjankal
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Infants and toddlers – Risk of toxicity and eye irritation; not safe unless certified by a doctor.
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Pregnant or lactating women – Should avoid unless recommended by a Siddha/Ayurvedic expert.
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People with sensitive or allergic eyes – May cause burning, redness, or allergic reactions.
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Individuals with chronic eye conditions – Like glaucoma, corneal ulcers, or recent eye surgery.
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Those using contact lenses – Can cause damage or irritation if particles enter the eye.
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Anyone using commercial/unbranded Surma – Often contains lead, antimony, or harmful chemicals. Click For Purchase
Special Note
Even in healthy individuals, only purified, tested, and traditionally prepared Anjankal should be used — and never in large or frequent doses.
Themes of Anjankal (Surma Stone)
1. Eyes as the Window to Health and Soul
In traditional systems, the eyes reflect inner balance and purity. Anjankal is used to:
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Maintain clear vision
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Remove toxins and mental fatigue
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Symbolically “open the inner eye” for clarity
2. Protection from Evil and Negativity
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Applied as Kajal in infants and adults to ward off the evil eye (Drishti)
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Acts as both cosmetic and talisman
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Represents the protective energy of nature
3. Nature as Medicine
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Reflects how minerals and earth elements were used safely through traditional purification techniques
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Embodies the Siddha/Ayurvedic view of healing through balanced doshas and natural elements
4. Beauty with Purpose
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Not just cosmetic—Kajal made from Anjankal is believed to nourish the eye while enhancing its look
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Beauty and health go hand in hand, unlike modern makeup
5. Purification and Caution
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The need for shodhana (purification) teaches us the theme of respecting nature’s power
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Only through wisdom and process, something potentially harmful becomes healing and sacred
Conclusion
Anjankal, the sacred Surma Stone, stands as a powerful symbol of traditional wisdom—where beauty, healing, and protection converge through the eyes. Revered in Siddha, Ayurveda, and Unani systems, it has served as both a remedy and a ritual, enhancing vision, soothing the senses, and warding off negativity. However, its benefits can only be unlocked through proper purification and responsible use. In a world turning back to nature, Anjankal reminds us that the earth’s gifts, when handled with care and respect, can offer not just wellness—but timeless grace.