Kohl al-Ethmed

Abstract EN

To find Kohl Al-Ethmed, which Prophet Mohammed (Peace be upon him) was using and recommended to use.

16 samples of commonly used Kohl were analyzed.

Atomic Absorption Spectrometer was used to detect minerals presence and its concentrations.

Plasma IL-200, Emission spectrometer was used to detect Antimony.

Samples, which found to match the description of Kohl Al-Ethmed tested for microbial contamination.

If this is negative, its effect on growth of various types of common organisms to the eye is tested.

One sample found to match some of the literature description of Kohl Al-Ethmed ; it is reddish-brownish-black in color, and had Antimony (Sb = 0.01 %) in it, which is claimed to be the effective gradient of Al-Ethmed.

It has no bacterial contamination, and no inhibitory effect on microbial growth in vitro.

It contains very low concentration of lead (Pb = 0.01 %), which is claimed to be the most hazardous component of commonly used brands of Kohl.

It contains iron, copper, magnesium, manganese and zinc, which function as cofactors for various enzymes in the tears film.

Our sample is safe and matches some of the description of Kohl Al-Ethmed.

Further studies are recommended to fully understand its effect on eyes and microorganisms in vivo.