2,200-year-old chinese burial uncovers woman with toxic red-stained teeth

A Burial Site in Northwestern China has Reveled a Woman’s Remains with an unusual feature – Her Teeth Withted With Cinnabar, A Toxic Red Mineral Composed of Mercury and Sulfur. The Grave, Dated Between 2,200 and 2,050 years ago, was found in Turpan City, Xinjiang, Along A Major Silk Road Trade Route. Archaeologists identified the remains as belonging to the Gushi People, Known for their Equestrian Culture. The significance of cinnabar-stained teeth in ancient societies have not been previously corrected.

First recorded case of cinnabar on teeth

According to a study Published in Archaeological and Anthropological Sciences, this is the first know instance of cinnabar being applied to human teeth. Qian Wang, Professor of Biomedical Sciences at Texas A & M University College of Dentistry, told Live Science that No other ancient Burial Worldwide has exhibited this practice. The analysis of the Red Pigment, Conducted Through Spectroscopy Methods, Confirmed The Presence of Cinnabar Mixed With Ann Animal Protein, Possibly Egg Yolk Oor Egg White, to facilities.

Possible Cultural and Ritualistic Significance

The purpose behind the red pigment remain untilar. Experts Sugged Connections to Cosmetic Practices, Social Status, or Shamanistic Rituals. Other Burials in the Region Have Shown Evidence of Facial Paintings and Tattoos, Indicating the Possibility of Broader Body Adornment Traditions. The Xinjiang Region does not have natural cinnabar deposits, implying that the substance was important, passibly from west asia, europe, or other parts of china,

Health Risks of Cinnabar Exposure

Li Sun, Professor of Geology at Collection, Noted The Potential Health Risks Associated with Cinnabar Use. Mercury Exposure is Linked to Neurological Damage, Yet No Traces of Mercury Poisoning was detected in the Woman’s Bones. The frequency and Duration of Exposure Remain Uncertain.