In the rural village of Rampur in Uttar Pradesh’s Bulandshahr district, an unconventional and harmful oral hygiene practice is taking a toll on public health. Residents of this small village rely on a locally known product called Gulmanjan—a tobacco-based powder—to clean their teeth, believing it not only ensures oral hygiene but also promotes gut health.

This surprising practice reflects a troubling lack of awareness about proper oral hygiene and its impact on overall health. Many villagers, including Dharampal Singh (name changed), admit they cannot defecate without using Gulmanjan each morning, as they believe it aids their digestion. 

“I’ve been using it for years. Now, I’m addicted. Without it, my gut doesn’t feel right,” Singh confided.

Another resident, Urmila Devi (name changed), echoed Singh’s sentiments. She admitted to being equally reliant on the product, highlighting a widespread dependency in the community.

The Health Risks of Gulmanjan

Dr. Chandradeep Chandra, a renowned dental surgeon from Delhi, warns of the serious health risks associated with Gulmanjan. “This product is highly addictive. Its abrasive particles can damage tooth enamel, causing wear and tear that leads to infections,” he explained. Dr. Chandra emphasised that contrary to the villagers’ beliefs, Gulmanjan neither cleans teeth effectively nor supports gut health.

He added, “The use of such harmful substances perpetuates poor oral hygiene and increases the risk of dental infections, gum diseases, and long-term oral health complications. It’s crucial that proper toothpaste be used to clean teeth, and that such misconceptions are addressed urgently.”

The Bigger Problem: Lack of Awareness

This reliance on Gulmanjan is symptomatic of a deeper issue—limited awareness about the importance of oral health. In rural areas like Rampur, oral hygiene often takes a backseat to other health concerns, exacerbated by misinformation and a lack of access to education and healthcare resources.

Experts stress the urgent need for public health interventions to tackle these misconceptions and promote healthier practices. “Educational campaigns focused on oral health are essential,” Dr. Chandra said. “Collaborative efforts between healthcare professionals and local authorities can help replace harmful habits with informed choices.”

A Call to Action

The situation in Rampur is a stark reminder of the critical role awareness plays in improving community health. Without targeted education and accessible healthcare solutions, harmful practices like using Gulmanjan will continue to take a toll on both oral and overall health.

As the health sector grapples with the challenges posed by such practices, addressing the root causes through awareness campaigns and improved access to dental care can pave the way for healthier communities. Rampur’s story underlines the importance of empowering rural populations with knowledge to make informed health decisions and break the cycle of dependency on harmful substances.