Reviving ithmid kohl: The intersection of health, beauty and culture in Saudi Arabia

Studies found that authentic ithmid can have benefits, such as reducing eye irritation and improving vision. (Supplied)
Short Url
Updated 16 August 2024
Follow

Reviving ithmid kohl: The intersection of health, beauty and culture in Saudi Arabia

  • Young people embracing the ancient tradition as a way to connect with their heritage

RIYADH: The resurgence of ithmid in the Saudi market among the youth has sparked interest and discussion in recent months.

Ithmid, also known as kohl, is a type of eye cosmetic that has been used in cultures the world over. It is made of ultra-fine and homogenized powder containing a mixture of minerals or elements.

Ithmid has a long history of use in the Arabian Peninsula and other parts of the Middle East. But for Muslims it holds special significance because it was used by the Prophet Muhammad for its benefits to eye health.




Ithmid, also known as kohl, is a type of eye cosmetic that has been used in cultures the world over. It is made of ultra-fine and homogenized powder containing a mixture of minerals or elements. (Supplied)

Many young people are embracing this ancient tradition as a way to connect with their heritage and express their cultural identity.

In addition to its cultural significance, the revival of ithmid can also be attributed to its perceived health benefits.

Owners of the Athmad19 Instagram store told Arab News: “Prophet Muhammad recommended its use for many reasons, mainly its many benefits for improving eye health and for cosmetics.”




Studies found that authentic ithmid can have benefits, such as reducing eye irritation and improving vision. (Supplied)

The owners said that they were inspired to create their business because of the lack of authentic ithmid kohl.

“We strive to revive the Sunnah of the Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him, and remind people of the benefits of ithmid kohl,” they said.

Ophthalmologists and scientists have conducted studies on the efficacy and safety of ithmid for use around the eyes. These studies found that authentic ithmid can have benefits, such as reducing eye irritation and improving vision.

According to the World Health Organization, Andalib et al. carried out research to inform frequent users of ithmid about its toxic and beneficial effects.

The study’s results demonstrate the chemical makeup of ithmid and its safe use as a cosmetic and therapeutic product for maintaining the health of human eyes, with no adverse outcomes.  

One of the primary benefits of ithmid kohl is its antibacterial effect. Studies have shown that ithmid can inhibit the growth of harmful bacteria, making it an effective treatment for eye infections such as conjunctivitis.

Bushra Al-Saeed, 25, discovered the healing powers of ithmid kohl for her persistent pink eye, or conjunctivitis.

“My eye doctor prescribed me antibiotics for recurring pink eye, but to no avail,” she said.
Then her grandmother told her to try the traditional remedy of ithmid kohl. “To my surprise, my eye quickly began to heal and my lashes grew darker and thicker,” Al-Saeed said.

The solution not only cured her pink eye but also opened her eyes to the wonders of natural remedies.

A study by Hasson et al. showed the successful treatment of bacterial endophthalmitis using ithmid, claiming it as “an innovative approach that has shown promise and may potentially serve as a viable alternative in clinical practice.”

Ithmid is also known for its cooling and soothing effect on the eyes. Its natural ingredients help reduce inflammation and redness, providing relief to those suffering from eye discomfort. This makes it a popular choice for people who spend long hours in front of screens or under harsh lighting.

To reap the benefits, Athmad19 owners said that it is important to be able to identify authentic ithmid from fake products that claim to be pure ithmid.

“Fake ithmid causes itching and redness continues, and this is a sure factor that the kohl is fake and contains high levels of lead, iron or glass.”

They said that their ithmid is sourced from a guaranteed supplier, which they carefully study.

There are several methods used to ensure its authenticity, such as the magnet experiment.

“When the ithmid kohl sticks to the magnet, it is conclusive evidence that the kohl is not original and contains iron filings,” they said.

Some ithmid retailers incorrectly claim that if the product sticks to the magnet, it is evidence that the kohl contains beneficial minerals.

“This is just a promotional method and has nothing to do with the originality of the ithmid kohl at all because beneficial minerals are not attracted to the magnet.”

Another method of finding out if the ithmid is original is to check for its shine. The owners of Athmad19 said: “If the ithmid kohl powder is highly reflective, then that means that it is fake, because ithmid loses its shine after being ground into powder.”

They also said that people purchasing ithmid should buy it from a seller who can show the stone being ground into powder.

Overall, studies show that ithmid is a safe and natural alternative to modern eye treatments that may contain harsh chemicals. Its long-standing use in traditional medicine globally highlights its efficacy and safety, giving consumers peace of mind when using it for eye care.

 


Saudi Arabia condemns Israeli minister’s call for sovereignty over occupied West Bank

Updated 02 July 2025
Follow

Saudi Arabia condemns Israeli minister’s call for sovereignty over occupied West Bank

  • Kingdom’s foreign ministry said the move would violate international laws

RIYADH: A government minister’s threat for Israel to apply full sovereignty over the occupied West Bank was strongly condemned by Saudi Arabia on Wednesday.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs said the Kingdom “condemned and denunciated” the statement made by the Israeli official calling for the imposition of sovereignty over the Palestinian territory.

Such action would be a violation of international law, the statement said. Saudi Arabia rejects any attempts to expand settlements on Palestinian land, the ministry added, while reiterating the Kingdom’s position on the importance of Israel abiding by international resolutions.

The statement followed comments from Israel’s Justice Minister Yariv Levin saying “the time has come” for Israel to apply sovereignty across the West Bank.

Israel occupied the West Bank and East Jerusalem in 1967 and has built dozens of settlements, deemed illegal under international law, across the territory.

The Saudi foreign ministry offered its support for the Palestinian people in restoring their legitimate rights and in establishing a Palestinian state on the 1967 borders, with East Jerusalem as its capital.

 


Saudi ministry recalls faulty chargers over fire risk

Updated 02 July 2025
Follow

Saudi ministry recalls faulty chargers over fire risk

RIYADH: Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Commerce has announced the recall of 88,518 Anker portable chargers across multiple models due to a potential internal electrical short circuit that may cause overheating and pose a fire risk.

The ministry urged consumers to immediately stop using the affected products and contact Anker at the toll-free number 8008500030 to arrange a replacement or full refund, the Saudi Press Agency reported on Wednesday.

Consumers can check if their device is included in the recall and start the replacement or refund process by visiting anker.com/mmrc2506.

Users are also advised to verify the model number of their charger against the list of affected products on the Defective Products Recall Center website ecalls.sa.

The ministry reaffirmed its commitment to consumer safety and stressed the importance of promptly addressing product defects to prevent potential hazards.


GCC passports departments chiefs hold meeting

Updated 02 July 2025
Follow

GCC passports departments chiefs hold meeting

Gulf Cooperation Council Secretary-General Jasem Albudaiwi participated in the 39th Meeting of the Directors-General of Passports of the GCC countries, held on Wednesday at the headquarters of the General Secretariat in Riyadh.

During the meeting, he reviewed the latest developments, including the Gulf visa project.

The passport departments of the interior ministries of GCC countries, through a series of joint meetings, are making efforts to launch a unified tourist visa project in the near future, the General Secretariat said in a report.

“Everyone is working as one team to keep pace with technological developments and security requirements in a world characterised by rapid change,” Albudaiwi said.


Saudi FM discusses regional developments in call with US secretary of state

Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan held a phone call with his US counterpart State Marco Rubio on Wednesday. (AFP)
Updated 02 July 2025
Follow

Saudi FM discusses regional developments in call with US secretary of state

RIYADH: Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan held a phone call with his US counterpart Secretary of State Marco Rubio on Wednesday, Saudi Press Agency reported. 

During the call, Prince Faisal and Rubio reviewed US-Saudi relations and ways to enhance the strategic partnership between their countries. The latest regional and international developments were also discussed. 


Saudi delegation in Tokyo for talks on GCC-Japan free trade agreement

Updated 02 July 2025
Follow

Saudi delegation in Tokyo for talks on GCC-Japan free trade agreement

  • Trade volume between Kingdom, Japan reached $36bn in 2024
  • Saudi team oversees and monitors progress of trade negotiations

TOKYO: Farid bin Saeed Al-Asali, the General Authority for Foreign Trade’s deputy governor for international agreements and organizations, is in Tokyo to lead the Kingdom’s delegation in the second round of negotiations on the free trade agreement between the GCC and Japan, which began on June 30 and will run until July 4.

According to GAFT, the Saudi negotiating team includes nine technical teams focused on goods, services, investment, e-commerce, intellectual property, and government procurement.

Comprising 46 government agencies, the teams prepare the Kingdom’s positions on negotiations and proposals within the World Trade Organization and free trade agreements, and submit relevant reports to the negotiating team.

In 2024, the trade volume between Saudi Arabia and Japan reached about $36 billion. The most significant exports from the Kingdom were mineral products and organic chemical products. In contrast, the primary imports from Japan included automobiles and automotive components, as well as machinery and mechanical tools.

Overall, Saudi Arabia’s exports totaled about $28 billion, while imports amounted to around $8 billion.

The Saudi team oversees and monitors the progress of trade negotiations to ensure they align with the Kingdom’s trade objectives and policies. Additionally, the team participates in the negotiations to incorporate the Kingdom’s positions, making their role integral to the process.

The General Authority for Foreign Trade aims to enhance trade gains, strengthen global presence, and engage with international organizations for sustainable development. The authority plays a crucial role in negotiations, representing the Kingdom’s interests and ensuring trade agreements align with its objectives.