surma.md

Here's a summary of various methods for making surma:

Surma is always in powder form, Kajal is in moist/gel form

1. Almond-based Kajal:

Ingredients:

• Almonds
• Cow's ghee (clarified butter)

Steps:

1. Soak almonds in water overnight.
2. Peel the almonds and grind them into a smooth paste.
3. Heat cow's ghee in a pan and add the almond paste.
4. Stir continuously until it thickens and darkens.
5. Let it cool before applying.

2. Lampblack Kajal:

Ingredients:

• Lamp or oil lamp
• Plate or surface to collect soot
• Ghee or sesame oil

Steps:

1. Light a lamp using ghee or sesame oil.
2. Place a plate above the flame to collect soot.
3. Scrape off the collected soot.
4. Mix the soot with a small amount of ghee to form a paste.
5. Apply the paste as surma.

Link:

• https://www.amazon.in/TATSAT-100-Ayurvedic-Medicated-Preservatives-irritation/dp/B09M89GYT5 (mix of Ayurvedic & Soot)
• https://www.amazon.in/SNANA-petroleum-byproducts-Fragrance-Synthetic/dp/B0BH4XXYH3 (soot with some oil)

3. Ayurvedic Kajal:

Ingredients:

• Triphala powder (amla, haritaki, bibhitaki)
• Ghee or Almond oil

Steps:

1. Mix triphala powder with ghee to form a paste.
2. Heat the mixture until it thickens.
3. Allow it to cool before applying.

Link:

• https://ayurvedafamily.com/products/herbal-kohl-kajal
• https://www.amazon.in/Himalaya-Herbals-Kajal-Black-2-7g/dp/B00791FM42 (it has camphor and other oils also)

4. Stone-based Surma:

Ingredients and Tools:

• Surma stone
• Water

Steps:

1. Select a smooth surma stone.
2. Clean the surma stone.
3. Wet the stone's surface.
4. Rub a small piece of stone against it in a circular motion.
5. Collect the powdered surma.
6. Store in a clean, dry container.
7. Mix with ghee or almond oil before applying.

Link:

• https://www.flipkart.com/bhimseni-karyalay-black-surma-725mg-pack-6/p/itm9140324553d0b (it has many ingredients, check here)

5. Saffron-based Surma:

Ingredients:

1. Saffron strands
2. Almond oil or coconut oil

Steps:

1. Crush saffron strands into a fine powder.
2. Mix the saffron powder with a small amount of almond oil or coconut oil.
3. Ensure that the saffron dissolves completely in the oil.
4. Apply the mixture as surma.

This variation introduces saffron, which not only imparts a distinctive color but is also believed to have soothing properties. Adjust the proportions according to your desired consistency and color intensity.

Links:

• https://www.google.com/search?hl=en&q=Red%20Khojati%20Ismid%20Surma
• https://glo.zenamoroccan.com/moroccan-kohl-with-saffron
• https://www.desertcart.ae/products/242278476-mumtaz-original-red-khojati-ismid-surma-kohl-4-g-x-3-pack

Safety Notes

Remember, the safety and efficacy of homemade surma depend on the quality and purity of the ingredients used. It's crucial to prioritize hygiene during preparation, especially when dealing with substances applied near the eyes. If you have specific concerns or eye conditions, consult with a healthcare professional before using homemade surma or consider using commercially available eye cosmetics that adhere to safety standards.

Always exercise caution when applying any substance near the eyes. If uncertain about the safety or if you have sensitive eyes, consult with healthcare professionals or cultural experts.