Sindoor or Vermillion is the red paste applied to the forehead as tilakam, and used in Pujas. The commerical Sindoor sold over the counter contains Lead Oxides and is actually very toxic. I found that my headaches and twitching was caused by my exposure to sindoor that contains lead.

Recipe:
1 part tumeric
1 part slaked like/hydrated lime/calcium hydroxide
A little water.

Mix all these and the yellow tumeric will turn a brilliant red. Make sure to get all the pastey lime mixed in well with the tumeric. This is much better for you and much better for your puja.

Jay Jagadambae Maa