01/08/2026
Shangraf Roomi, also spelled Shingraf Rumi, refers to cinnabar, the natural mineral form of mercuric sulfide, HgS.
Key facts:
• Appearance: Bright red to reddish orange mineral or fine powder.
• Traditional use: It has been used in some Ayurvedic, Unani, and traditional Chinese medicine preparations. In these systems, it is typically processed according to traditional methods and used only in very small quantities under the supervision of a qualified practitioner.
• Modern safety: Cinnabar contains mercury. Although mercuric sulfide is less readily absorbed than some other mercury compounds, it can still expose people to mercury, especially with repeated use, poor quality processing, heating, or inhalation of dust. Mercury exposure can damage the nervous system, kidneys, and other organs.
• Current medical guidance: Cinnabar is not considered safe for self medication. Many health authorities advise against the routine use of mercury containing products because of the risk of mercury toxicity.
Al-Shifa Hamdard Dawakhana
