How safe are your Mehendi cones: Drug Controller busted toxic ‘Picramic Acid’ used in product

Hyderabad: Drugs Control Administration (DCA) raided Shakil Industries in Mehdipatnam, Hyderabad after receiving inputs that they are manufacturing 'Mehendi (Henna) cones' using toxic 'Picramic Acid'.

J. Kiran Kumar, Drug Inspector, Hanamkonda, played a crucial role in gathering intelligence about the potentially harmful 'Special Karachi Mehendi Cone' in the market.

Subsequent testing at the Drugs Control Laboratory in Hyderabad confirmed the presence of 'Picramic Acid,' a synthetic dye not compliant with the standards set by the 'Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) IS 17318:2020.'

The DCA officials, including J. Kiran Kumar, P. Santosh, C. Vivekananda Reddy, and V. Ajay, raided Shakil Industries on January 9, 2024. The unlicensed manufacturing facility was found producing 'Special Karachi Mehendi Cone' without the necessary cosmetic manufacturing license.

Mohammed Yousuf Ali, the proprietor of Shakil Industries, Mehdipatnam, had a significant stock of these spurious mehendi cones seized during the operation. The DCA officers collected samples for further analysis as part of their ongoing investigation.

Cosmetics manufactured at unlicensed facilities pose a serious threat to public health, as they may not adhere to the quality standards outlined by BIS. The absence of a 'Licence' on the label of cosmetic products implies their production at unlicensed facilities, suggesting potential harm to consumers.

V.B. Kamalasan Reddy emphasized the significance of the operation and stated that action would be taken against all offenders by the law.

What is Picramic Acid and how is it harmful to humans?

To shed light on the potential health implications, it is essential to understand what Picramic Acid is. Picramic Acid is a synthetic dye not suitable for use in Henna (Mehendi) Cones, as per BIS standards. It is imperative to grasp the composition and effects of Picramic Acid on individuals who apply mehendi cones.

Dr. Kalyani Lingala, a renowned dermatologist, expressed concern about the use of Picramic Acid in cosmetic products. "Picramic Acid is a synthetic dye. It may cause adverse reactions when applied to the skin. Skin irritation, allergic reactions, and long-term dermatological issues are potential risks associated with its use. Consumers should be cautious about using products containing this chemical," warned Dr. Lingala.

Picramic Acid is a chemical compound derived from picric acid, often used in dyes and explosives. When applied to the skin, it can lead to sensitization, redness, and itching.

Dr. Gowtham Reddy, Hyderabad Dermatologist explained, "Picramic Acid, being a synthetic dye, can penetrate the skin and trigger allergic reactions. Prolonged exposure may result in chronic skin conditions, making it crucial to avoid its use in cosmetics."