The science behind wearing of Vermillion (Sindoor or KumKum)-DYK

Tradition of wearing Sindoor or vermillion is said to have traveled through more than 5,000 years of Hindu culture.  

It is said that Sindoor activates the pituitary and pineal gland, so that the body and mind of a married women could function better. Applying the red vermilion also activates the chakras in the forehead and on the crown, which attracts cosmic and pranic energy. Sindoor is prepared using mercury, turmeric and lime. Mercury acts as a catalyst that helps ease stress, while keeping the brain active and alert. Mercury also helps in controlling blood pressure, activating sexual drive and libidinal energy