Holmes's Scientology sore

Film

16:30 26 July 2005

Katie Holmes allegedly erupted into mouth sores after a bizarre Scientology ritual, it has been suggested.

The screen beauty was spotted with unsightly sores around her month shortly after her romance with Hollywood heavyweight Tom Cruise was announced.

The blotches were thought to be from the smitten couple's kissing sessions - but it also sparked rumours the 'Batman Begins' star had undergone a Scientology detox procedure involving the vitamin niacin.

Science-fiction writer and Scientology founder L. Ron Hubbard insisted taking niacin in combination with exercise and sauna sessions helps purge the body of 'radiation' or negative alien substances in the body, according to a report in America's New York Daily News newspaper.

The vitamin can decrease cholesterol and boost circulation - but large doses can cause a red rash.

But officials at the cult - which Cruise has been devoted to for several years - have slammed speculation the brunette beauty's sores have anything to do with Scientology.

An official said: "Whatever you see on her face has got nothing to do with us. It's insulting that you would ask such a thing."

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