IEP Chandigarh
Holi, the festival of colors, is considered incomplete without the sound of drums and the joy of colors. This year, the festival of Holi will be celebrated across the country on March 25th. People apply colorful gulal to each other to make this day special. However, in the past, people used to play Holi with natural colors made from flowers or other organic materials, but today, synthetic chemical colors are commonly used. These colors contain chemicals like lead oxide, chromium iodide, copper sulfate, zinc, and aluminum bromide, which can cause various health problems for individuals. Former Assistant Professor Dr. H.K Kharbanda explained on this occasion how playing Holi with chemical colors can cause significant harm to health and what are the ways to prevent it.
Eye-related issues:
Chemical colors, especially those containing silica and zinc, can cause damage to the eyes even with a small amount getting into them. These colors can cause irritation and burning sensation in the eyes, and they may even damage the corneas. If color gets into the eyes, do not rub them with hands or cloth; instead, rinse them with water immediately and consult an eye doctor nearby.
Gastrointestinal problems:
Playing Holi with chemical colors, if ingested in large quantities, can lead to gastrointestinal issues. This can cause problems like vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and stomach infections.
Toxicity:
Chemical colors used in Holi contain dangerous chemicals like zinc, lead, chromium, and ammonia. If these colors accidentally enter the mouth or are absorbed through the skin during Holi play, it can increase toxicity in the body. This can lead to serious illnesses like cancer. Moreover, such colors can pose a risk to pregnant women and the developing fetus.
Respiratory issues:
Holi colors contain harmful chemicals like lead, silica, and zinc, which can damage the lungs. Additionally, these colors can contribute to respiratory diseases, leading to breathing difficulties and coughing.
Skin-related problems:
Playing Holi with chemical colors can cause issues like rashes, burning sensation, itching, and redness of the skin. Some people may also develop allergies to these colors, resulting in small bumps on the skin.
Precautions to take while playing Holi:
– Always use herbal colors for playing Holi.
– Wear protective eyewear to keep your eyes safe from colors.
– Apply oil to your body before playing Holi to protect your face and skin from chemical colors.
– If color accidentally enters the eyes or mouth, immediately wash with water or gargle.
These precautions can help prevent health issues associated with playing Holi with chemical colors.
