3 HEALING FOODS IN ISLAM

3  HEALING FOODS IN ISLAM 

Throughout the history of humankind, we have been constantly on the hunt to seek remedies for countless illnesses plaguing the world. For us as Muslims, the Holy Quran and the Sunnah of our beloved Prophet (PBUH) serve as our ultimate sources of guidance in all aspects of life, including health and healing. This blog aims to share some valuable insights, knowledge, and practical wisdom for managing various ailments through the simple consumption of natural, easily accessible foods, whose immense benefits are often overlooked. 

The Holy Quran contains numerous references emphasizing the importance of the Prophet (PBUH) and affirming the timeless relevance of his guidance. For example, Allah Almighty reminds humanity of this in the following verse stating,

 
لَّقَدْ كَانَ لَكُمْ فِى رَسُولِ ٱللَّهِ أُسْوَةٌ حَسَنَةٌۭ لِّمَن كَانَ يَرْجُوا۟ ٱللَّهَ وَٱلْيَوْمَ ٱلْـَٔاخِرَ وَذَكَرَ ٱللَّهَ كَثِيرًۭا

“Indeed, in the Messenger of Allah you have an excellent example for whoever has hope in Allah and the Last Day, and remembers Allah often.” [33:21]

This verse clearly indicated that Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) was sent as a guide, and mercy for all of humankind, and as such was given wisdom by Allah The Almighty that is beneficial to humanity. Allah (SWT) continues to  say in the Quran:

يَـٰٓأَيُّهَا ٱلنَّاسُ قَدْ جَآءَتْكُم مَّوْعِظَةٌۭ مِّن رَّبِّكُمْ وَشِفَآءٌۭ لِّمَا فِى ٱلصُّدُورِ وَهُدًۭى وَرَحْمَةٌۭ لِّلْمُؤْمِنِينَ

“O humanity! Indeed, there has come to you a warning from your Lord, a cure for what is in the hearts, a guide, and a mercy for the believers.”

Further insinuating the fact that the medicine of the prophet (PBUH) is not restricted to spiritual healing alone. In fact, it balances the healing of the soul and the physical body in order to ultimately prepare man for a better life in the Hereafter.

The Prophet (PBUH) was a firm advocate of household remedies for the treatment of ailments and would frequently emphasis on their benefits. When we take a closer look at the healing properties of common, easily available foods, it becomes clear just how simple it is to add these into our daily diet to support health, aid recovery from illness, and strengthen our immunity.

Honey

First and foremost, honey is a remarkable natural gift, not only for its sweetness but also for its extensive healing properties. Cherished for thousands of years, it's packed with essential nutrients and antioxidants. Honey boosts immunity with its antibacterial qualities and protects against various health concerns. It’s a staple in traditional medicine, treating and managing illnesses like diabetes when used in a balanced diet.

For generations, honey has been used as an alternative treatment for ailments like wound healing, skin conditions, bronchial asthma, throat infections, and even some cancers. Honey's significance goes back approximately 1400 years, when the Holy Quran mentioned it as a prime source of healing. In Surah Nahl, it says,

 “There are cures for humans in honey.”

Black sesame seeds 

Another highly beneficial natural food is black seeds, or black sesame seeds, with its numerous health benefits as a powerful natural remedy, black seeds help heal various illnesses as well. Regular consumption not only improves blood pressure but also reduces oxidation in the body and acts as a significant source of antioxidants and helpful plant compounds that ultimately help defeat illnesses like cancer. The fibers provided by the consumption of black seeds help in improving gut health as well as it nourishes the healthy bacteria present in the gut to enhance digestion. Furthermore, these seeds reduce the risk of various heart diseases as they aid in lowering high cholesterol and triglyceride levels.

Historically, Black seeds are a highly admirable food in traditional medicine and are even mentioned in religious texts. Ancient herbalists referred to these seeds as "the herb of heaven" as previous texts, like the Bible and Greek medical sources, highlighted their healing powers. Islamically, Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) also boasted on the healing properties of black seeds in hadiths, for example: Abu Hurairah narrated that he heard the Messenger of Allah (PBUH) say : 

“In black seed there is healing for every disease, except the Sam [death]” [Sunan Ibn Majah 3447]

This goes to show just how beneficial the consumption of black seeds can be for our overall health. Black seeds have been traditionally used to alleviate conditions like leprosy and phlegm-based fevers, to relieve bloating and gas, and to clear congestion. If you are to ground it and mix it with another extremely healing food like honey, it is said to help dissolve kidney and prostate stones and act as a natural diuretic. For women specifically, regular use of black seeds can support menstrual health by increasing blood flow and may promote milk production in nursing mothers.

These are all the benefits identified just by the consumption of black seeds as a whole. However, if we are to also consider the oil extracted from them, then it provides another set of benefits. For example, black seed oil is noted to help heal snake bites, hemorrhoids and certain skin conditions. Mix some oil in water and effortlessly ease labored breathing. Vinegar-infused black seeds have the ability to help soothe toothaches caused by cold sensitivities by rinsing your mouth with the mixture. In traditional practices, It was noted that by inhaling some of the black seed power, you can treat facial paralysis, and black seeds are known to ease congestions, cold symptoms and gas. This remarkable seed truly stands out as a natural healer, valued across generations and cultures for its diverse benefits to our health.

Figs

Figs have been long associated with health and prosperity, typically grown in hot and sunny climates of the Mediterranean and the Middle East, figs are a cluster of inverted flowers that blossom from the inside out when left to grow. Figs are packed with essential minerals and hone incredible health benefits, marking their significance in various cultures. Particularly high in calcium and potassium, they help improve bone density and thus reduce the probability of developing conditions like osteoporosis. To top it off, figs significantly aid in achieving a more balanced diet as they are a completely fat-free and cholesterol-free addition to our diets. They are also known for improving digestion and regulating blood sugar levels, ultimately promoting a healthier gut and blood sugar levels.

For an Islamic point of view, Figs are highly revered as not only is there a separate Surah called 'Surah At-tin' (meaning 'fig' in Arabic), but it was also reported by Abu Darda (RA) who narrated that the Messenger of Allah (PBUH) said, 

“Eat figs! If I were to say that a fruit was sent down from the heavens, I would say it is the fig because it has no seeds. It cures piles and benefits rheumatism.”

This verse clearly highlighted the importance of figs as not only a healthy food but also a natural remedy for a variety of illnesses. It is believed that figs can benefit the liver, digestive system, and urinary tract, making them a valuable part of traditional health practices. Furthermore, figs are praised for their ability to cleanse the liver and spleen, ease chest and throat discomfort, and reduce phlegm build-up in the stomach. With such a wealth of health benefits, figs are truly one of nature’s treasures, offering nourishing support for our bodies in numerous ways.

If you would like to grasp a deeper understanding on the importance and benefits of foods, especially of the ones the Prophet (PBUH) used to enjoy and preached on their significance, make sure to check out one of our previous blogs: The Importance of Sunnah Foods: Prophetic Diet and Nutrition in Islam