Prophetic Medicine – Siwaak

The Siwaak is a natural toothbrush, toothpaste and dental floss. It comes from the Arak which is a small tree that grows up to 3 meters high. Its leaves are small, thick and oval in shape and its smell resembles that of mustard.

It grows in hot climates such as Saudi Arabia, Yemen, Egypt and the other Equatorial countries. Its twigs are usually cut to a hand span in length and of medium thickness. When Siwaak twigs are not available, twigs from the olive tree or palm leaf stalks are used.

Some hadith relating the importance of the Siwaak: Narrated Anas: Allah’s Messenger peace and blessings be upon him said, “I have told you repeatedly to use the Siwak”. (The Prophet peace and blessings be upon him put emphasis on the use of the Siwak.) (Sahih al-Bukhari)

Narrated Hudhaifa: “Whenever the Prophetpeace and blessings be upon him  got up at night, he used to clean his mouth with Siwak”. (Sahih al-Bukhari) It was narrated that Hudhaifah said: “We were commanded to use the siwak when we got up to pray at night.” (Sunan an-Nasa’i)

‘Aishah reported that the Prophet peace and blessings be upon him said “The siwaak is purifying for the mouth and pleasing to the Rabb” (Sunan An-Nasaa’ee)

Abu Hurairah (May Allah be pleased with him) reported: The Messenger of Allah peace and blessings be upon him said, “Had I not thought it difficult for my Ummah, I would have commanded them to use the Miswak (tooth-stick) before every Salat.” (Al-Bukhari and Muslim)

Benefits of Siwaak:

• Purifies the mouth
• Cleanses the teeth
• Strengthens the gums
• Prevents cavities
• Sweetens the breath
• Cleanses the brain
• Assists in digestion of food

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