Cosmetics, Costumes and Ornaments in Ancient India
by Remadevi. O. | 2009 | 54,177 words
This page relates ‘Use of Laksha (Lac)’ of the study on cosmetics, costumes and ornaments of ancient India based on Sanskrit sources. Chapter one deals with cosmetics and methods of enhancing beauty; Chapter two deals with costumes, garments and dresses; Chapter three deals with ornaments for humans and animals. Each chapter deals with their respective materials, types, preparation and trade, as prevalent in ancient Indian society.
1.11. Use of Lākṣā (Lac)
Amarakośa[1] lists six names of Lākṣā (Lac)—Rākṣā, Jatu, Kliba, Yaya, Alaktaka and Drumamaya. Lac is a red coloured resinous substance secreted on trees by lac insects. This red dye was used to paint the nails, feet and palm. In Dhanvantarī-nighaṇṭu[2], it is stated that Lākṣā is cold in potency and is sweet smelling. It is an antitoxic and pacifies thirst and sweat. It also proves curative in leprosy. Earliest reference to Lākṣā is in Atharvaveda (Atharvaveda)[3].
Footnotes and references:
[1]:
II.6.125
[3]:
I.6.125