ISLAMIC HERBAL MEDICINES

Traditional medicine in Islam is often referred to as Medicine of the Prophet (al-tibb an-Nabawi). Muslims often explore the Medicine of the Prophet as an alternative to modern therapies, or as a supplement to modern medical treatment.

Here are some traditional remedies that are a part of Islamic tradition.

 BLACK SEED

Black caraway or cumin seed (Nigella sativa) is not related to the common kitchen spice. This seed originated in western Asia and is part of the buttercup family. The Prophet Muhammad once advised his followers:

Use the black seed, because it contains a cure for every type of ailment except death.

Black seed is said to help with digestion, and it also contains antihistamine, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and analgesic properties. Muslims often consume black seed to help with respiratory ailments, digestive issues, and to boost the immune system

HONEY

Honey is described as a source of healing in the Quran:

There comes forth from their [bees’] bellies, a drink of varying color wherein is healing for men. Verily, in this is indeed a sign for people who think (Quran 16:69).

It is also mentioned as one of the foods of ​Jannah:

The description of Paradise which the pious have been promised is that in it are rivers of water the taste and smell of which are not changed; rivers of milk of which the taste never changes; rivers of wine delicious to those who drink; and rivers of clarified honey, clear and pure... (Quran 47:15).

Honey was mentioned repeatedly by the Prophet as a "healing," a "blessing," and "the best medicine."

In modern times, it has been discovered that honey has antibacterial properties as well as other health benefits. Honey is composed of water, simple and complex sugars, minerals, enzymes, amino acids, and several different vitamins known to be conducive to good health.

OLIVE OIL

The Quran says:

And a tree (olive) that springs forth from Mount Sinai, that grows oil, and it is a relish for the eaters. (Quran 23:20).

The Prophet Muhammad also once told his followers:

Eat the olive and anoint (yourselves) with it, for indeed it is from a blessed tree."

Olive oil contains monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fatty acids, as well as Vitamin E. It is consumed to promote coronary health and is used on the skin to increase softness and elasticity.

DATES

Dates (temar) are a traditional and popular food for breaking the daily Ramadan fast. Eating dates after fasting helps to maintain blood sugar levels and is an excellent source of dietary fiber, potassium, magnesium, and complex sugars.

ZAMZAM WATER

Zamzam water comes from an underground spring in Makkah, Saudi Arabia. It is known to contain large amounts of calcium, fluoride, and magnesium, necessary nutrients for good health.

SIWAK

Twigs of the Arak tree are commonly known as siwak or miswak. It is used as a natural toothbrush, and its oils are often used in modern toothpastes. Its soft fibers are rubbed gently over the teeth and gums to promote oral hygiene and gum health.

FIGS

                                                                                                                                                          Figs are a healing fruit and the health benefits of eating figs are amazing.   They are helpful for asthma,bronchitis, constipation, diabetes, piles, heart disease, lowering cholesterol, anemia, and high blood pressure.They are high in vitamins A, B, C, potassium, dietary fiber, magnesium, and high in calcium so they help develop strong bones, (making it an excellent source of calcium for those who are lactose intolerant).  History records show that  figs have been around since 5000 B.C.It is reported that Galen, a famous Herbalist of the 11^th century said, ”If the dried figs were eaten with walnuts and rue before taking a fatal poison, they would preserve against its noxious effects.”  This shows that figs have the ability to pull toxins out of the body