2,200-Year-Old Chinese Burial Uncovers Woman with Toxic Red-Stained Teeth

According to a study published successful Archaeological and Anthropological Sciences, this is the archetypal known lawsuit of cinnabar being applied to quality teeth. Qian Wang, prof of biomedical sciences astatine Texas A&M University College of Dentistry, told Live Science that nary different past burial worldwide has exhibited this practice. The investigation of the reddish pigment, conducted done spectroscopy methods, confirmed the beingness of cinnabar mixed with an carnal protein, perchance ovum yolk oregon ovum white, to facilitate application.

Possible Cultural and Ritualistic Significance

The intent down the reddish pigment remains unclear. Experts suggest connections to cosmetic practices, societal status, oregon shamanistic rituals. Other burials successful the portion person shown grounds of facial paintings and tattoos, indicating the anticipation of broader assemblage adornment traditions. The Xinjiang portion does not person earthy cinnabar deposits, implying that the substance was imported, perchance from West Asia, Europe, oregon other parts of China.

Health Risks of Cinnabar Exposure

Li Sun, prof of geology astatine Collin College, noted the imaginable wellness risks associated with cinnabar use. Mercury vulnerability is linked to neurological damage, yet nary traces of mercury poisoning were detected successful the woman's bones. The frequence and duration of vulnerability stay uncertain.