The Materia Medica of the Hindus, compiled from Sanskrit Medical Works c4.s7.t2.22

c4.s7.t2.22

The use of orpiment as a depilatory was known to the ancient Hindus. It enters into the composition of numerous formulæ for the removal of hair. The following are examples.² Take of conch-shell-lime, soaked in the juice of plantain tree, and of orpiment, equal parts, make them into a paste with the aid of water, and apply it to the part from which the hair is to be removed. Or take of conch-shell-lime two parts, orpiment one part, realgar half a part, *sarjikákshára* (impure carbonate of soda) one part, rub together with water, and apply.