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Zaitoon (Olive) Is Cure For Seventy Diseases

Zaitoon (Olive) Is Cure For Seventy Diseases “Eat the olive oil and massage it over your bodies since it is a holy (Mubarak) tree.” (Tirmizi, Ibn Maja)

Zaitoon (Olive) the sign of peace and friendship in this world has its description in the Holy Qur’an Allah says: By the fig and olive, And the mount of Sinai, And the city of security We have indeed created man in the best of molds. Then do we abase him (to be) the lowest of low Except such as believe and do righteous deeds for they shall have a reward unfailing What then, can after this, make you deny the last judgment Is not Allah the wisest of judges” (The Fig, Surah 95)

The plant of olive goes up to a height of 3 meters, its leaves are bright green and very attractive and the fruits are of bright bluish or violet color, possessing a metallic taste. It is known from old ages. While excavating ancient Egyptian graves, vessels full of olive oil were found with other articles. According to the scholars of Hadith, on the subsidence of Toofan-E-Nooh, when the water level came down, the first thing on the earth that was seen, was the olive plant. The plant is extensively found in Asia Minor, Palestine, Roman territory, Greece, Portugal, Spain, Turkey, Italy, North Africa, Algeria, Tunisia, California in America, Mexico, Peru, and the South zone of Australia. Usually, it is imported from Spain, Italy, France, Turkey and Greece. Though olive fruits are very nutritious, it is not usually eaten due to its metallic taste. Rather, pickles of its fruits are largely consumed in Europe. The fruits preserved in vinegar are imported from Greece and liked very much in Europe and Arabian countries.

Olive oil is a good preservative for other eatables too. Sardine and other fishes are tinned and preserved in olive oil. The smoke-less burning of olive oil is a peculiar feature, which produces a bright light. Holy Qur’an stresses the importance of Zaitoon on several occasions: (141-M-AlInaam-6), (99-K-AlInaam-6), (11-K-AlNahl-16), (AlNoor-35), (Moominoon). Hazrat Sayyed Al-Ansari narrates that the Prophet said “Eat the olive oil and massage it over your bodies since it is a holy (Mubarak) tree.” (Tirmizi, Ibn Maja) Hazrat Alqama Bin Amir narrates that the Prophet said, “There is olive oil for you, eat it, massage over your body since it is effective in Hemorrhoids (Piles).” (Ibn Al-Jozi, Zanbi)

Health Benefits Of Honey

Honey is a sweet treat. In fact, it is man’s oldest sweetener. It can be a good substitute for sugar in our drinks and food. But it is also good for many other things and treating many other conditions. Reliance on commercialized medicines that contain too many chemicals can become hazardous to our health. Alhamdulillah, Allah has given us the knowledge that Mother Nature can at least help ease the pain we are suffering from.

Honey comprises sugars like glucose and fructose and minerals like magnesium, potassium, calcium, sodium chlorine, sulfur, iron, and phosphate. It contains vitamins B1, B2, C, B6, B5, and B3, all of which change according to the qualities of the nectar and pollen. Besides the above, copper, iodine, and zinc exist in it in small quantities. Several kinds of hormones are also present in it.

Approximately one-half of the human diet is derived directly or indirectly from crops pollinated by bees. Today, honeybees are an essential part of a healthy agriculture economy. If you have allergies, honey can be beneficial. If you eat honey that is local to your area, it may prevent your seasonal allergies. Bees use the pollen from local plants, and eventually, it ends up in your honey.

Honey may also be good for your skin. It can attract water. You can use honey instead of alpha hydroxy masks because of its high content of the acid. It is also safe for sensitive skin.

You can also use it as a moisturizing mask for your skin as well as your hair. To use it as a conditioner, mix the honey with olive oil. Be sure to wash your hair thoroughly before you go outside.

If you have a sore throat, take some honey. Due to its natural anti-inflammatory effect, it will help to heal wounds more quickly. It also has different phytochemicals–chemicals found in plants and different foods–that kill viruses, bacteria, and fungus, making it a good substitute for wound dressings. The taste may also take your mind off the pain.

There is evidence that honey diluted in water will help with your stomachaches and dehydration.

Health In Islam: Germ-Fighting Properties Germ-Fighting Properties
Do you have a cut? Honey is a natural antiseptic. Medical journals cite more than 600 cases in which honey was employed to treat wounds. By applying honey to your wounds, you prevent infections. Honey contains antimicrobial agents, which prevent infections by killing the bacteria in and around your wounds. When using honey, it may help to heat it before putting it on your wound (caution test the heat before you place it on the wound). Many types of bacteria can’t survive in honey, so wounds heal, swelling eases, and tissue can grow back.

Honey may also be effective in the treatment of your ulcers. In Europe, honey has been used internally to help cure ulcers, particularly stomach ulcers.

Burns, too, heal better with honey, studies show. The advantage of honey is that it not only prevents infections from occurring, it accelerates skin healing. Since the sugar in honey absorbs water, it helps to trap some of the moisture so that the bacteria and other microbes can’t grow as easily as in other food.

Honey: How Does It Help In Healing Wounds? How Does It Help In Healing Wounds?
When honey comes into contact with body moisture, the glucose oxidase enzyme introduced to the honey by the bee slowly releases the antiseptic hydrogen peroxide at a sufficient level to be effective against bacteria but not tissue damage. Not only is honey antibacterial, but it also draws body fluids and nutrients to the area and so assists cell growth, and prevents a scar from forming by drying out the wound.

The osmotic action of the honey draws out and provides a film of liquid between the tissues and the dressing, allowing the dressing to be removed painlessly, without tearing the re-growing cells. There are reports in medical journals of large bed sores, otherwise needing skin grafts, that have healed without scarring after honey treatment.
In treating diarrhea, honey promotes the rehydration of the body and more quickly clears up the diarrhea and any vomiting and stomach upsets. The antibacterial properties of honey, both the peroxide and non-peroxide, are effective in the laboratory against MRSA strains of bacteria which are notoriously resistant to antibiotics and are sometimes responsible for the closing of hospital wards.

Other Benefits of Honey
Easily digested: Because sugar molecules in honey can convert into other sugars (e.g. fructose to glucose), honey is easily digested by the most sensitive stomachs, despite its high acid content. It helps kidneys and intestines to function better.

Good source of antioxidants: It plays a big role in the prevention of cancer as well as heart disease.
Has a low-calorie level: Another quality of honey is that, when it is compared with the same amount of sugar, it gives 40% fewer calories to the body. Although it gives great energy to the body, it does not add weight.
Rapidly diffuses through the blood: When accompanied by mild water, honey diffuses into the bloodstream in 7 minutes. Its free sugar molecules make the brain function better since the brain is the largest consumer of sugar, thus, reducing fatigue.
Supports blood formation: Honey provides an important part of the energy needed by the body for blood formation. In addition, it helps in cleansing the blood. It has some positive effects in regulating and facilitating blood circulation. It also functions as a protection against capillary problems and arteriosclerosis.
Does not accommodate bacteria: This bactericide (bacteria-killing) property of honey is named “the inhibition effect”. Experiments conducted on honey show that its bactericide properties increase twofold when diluted with water. It is very interesting to note that newly born bees in the colony are nourished with diluted honey by the bees responsible for their supervision – as if they know this feature of the honey.
Royal Jelly: Royal jelly is a substance produced by worker bees inside the beehive. Inside this nutritious substance are sugar, proteins, fats, and many vitamins. It is used in problems caused by tissue deficiency or body frailty.

It is obvious that honey, which is produced in much higher amounts than the requirements of the bees, is made for the benefit of man. And it is also obvious that bees cannot perform such an unbelievable task “on their own.”

Islamic Remedies: Ginger Increases Memory Power

THE Latin name for ginger is Zingeber Officinale. It is a very aromatic spice. Traditionally, in the Asian culture, ginger has been used for medicinal purposes. The herb is used to treat arthritis, nausea, loss of appetite, fight body odor, promote perspiration and to increase memory power.

Qur’an “And they will be given to drink there of a cup (of wine) mixed with Zanjabil (ginger).” (76:17)

Hadith: Abu Nu’aym narrates in his book on Prophetic medicines that Abu Sa’id Al-Kudri (may Allah be pleased with him) said: “The Byzantine king gave the Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him) a barrel of ginger as a gift, and he gave each person a part of it. I too got a piece.”

Benefits
Ginger is used for medicinal purposes as well. The herb is used to treat arthritis. The herb has also been found to limit the production of cytokines that are linked with inflammation and pain. Ginger cures joint pain by stimulating blood circulation. Other conditions that have characteristics of pain and poor circulation can also benefit from using ginger, and these include reynaud’s syndrome and rheumatoid arthritis.

In our modern world, ginger still relieves nausea and may ease motion sickness in some individuals. Large doses may actually help relieve the chemotherapy-related nausea.

The spice helps to protect the heart, lower cholesterol, and prevent strokes by building up platelets in the arteries that can cause blood clots and atherosclerosis.

Ginger eases symptoms in the digestive tract as well. This includes flatulence, indigestion, diarrhea, and menstrual cramping. While memory is not part of the digestive system, ginger may help restore memory for some individuals.

Ginger supports the central nervous system and also has the ability to improve blood circulation. Basically, it acts as a catalyst for other herbs used for improving memory and concentration. It helps other herbs to do their work more effectively.

Therapeutic properties
The ginger herb is mostly known for its ability to alleviate nausea, motion sickness, and indigestion, and it also aids in other digestive problems. To be honest, the herb has been found to be better than drugs for anti-nausea, and the good news is that one does not get the adverse side effects that many Western medications have.

Because of what we have said, the ginger herb is an effective aid in helping with morning sickness and dizziness.

Recent studies, on top of this, have shown that the ginger root herb can lower blood cholesterol and reduce blood clotting. Ginger has a structure within the herb similar to aspirin. That is why it has the ability to make the blood thinner.

Some further ginger benefits include its use as an antibiotic agent, a very potent strong antioxidant (which seeks out free radicals that would otherwise damage healthy cells), and anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties within the herb itself. Because of the above, the herb has been used to help treat arthritis, as well as bodily aches and pains. Ginger benefits colds, flus, and allergies.

As one can see from above, ginger has many benefits, and is probably one of the most sought-after and widely used herbs. We recommend the use of ginger on a daily basis.

Ginger contains zinger, which defends the neurons of the brain to improve memory. The anti-inflammatory properties of ginger help protect the brain against memory-losing diseases. Research has shown that ginger, in addition to increasing the supply of nutrients to the brain, can block the creation of inflammatory chemicals, such as prostaglandins, which are associated with Alzheimer’s.

Dosage
Because ginger has widespread use and a lengthy history of consumption, we believe that the ginger root herb is effective and safe to consider for nutritional inclusion.

Dosages of ginger range from 25 mg to 100 mg. For optimal health maintenance, lower doses are better; for severe digestive problems, higher dosages may be considered.

Ginger has no known serious side effects, and the herb is viewed as a very safe herb to take. However, consumers should be aware that it has been known to cause heartburn in some people. If such a side effect occurs, lower the dosage or stop using the herb.

-by Dr. Rizwan Ahmed

 

Islamic Remedies: Hurf or Cress Purifies The Blood

Abu Hanifah Ad-Daynoori said: “Cress seeds are used in remedies and are also called Ath-Thuffaa, which the Prophet (peace be upon him) mentioned. Its plant is called Al-Hurf while Rashad seeds is its popular name.” Also, Abu Ubay said that Ath-Thuffaa is Hurf.

The Hadith that Abu Hanifah referred to is what Abu Ubay and other scholars have related from Ibn Abbas that the Prophet (peace be upon him) was reported to have said: “What a cure does the two bitter remedies carry: the Thuffaa and aloe.”

Black Cress (Nasturtium Niger) has long leaves, deeply cut and jagged on both sides, not much unlike wild mustard; the stalks are small, very limber, though very tough; one may twist them round as one may a willow before they break. The flowers are very small and yellow, after which come small pods, containing the seed. It usually grows by the waysides, and sometimes upon mud walls, but most among stones and rubbish.

They are more powerful against the scurvy, and to cleanse the blood and humors. It removes the stone and is very diuretic. The decoction cleanses the ulcers. The bruised leaves, or juice, are good to be applied to the face, or other parts troubled with freckles, pimples, spots, or the like, at night, and washed away in the morning. The juice mixed with vinegar, and the forepart of the head bathed therewith, is very good for those who feel dull and drowsy or are lethargic.

Constituents: Volatile oil, glycosides, fiber, protein with amino acids’ arginine, histidine, isoleucine, leucine, lysine, threonine, phenylalanine, methionine, tryptophan, valine, and folic acid.

Vitamins: A, B1, B2, B3, B5, B6, B17, C, D, E and K.

Minerals: Calcium, phosphorus, potassium, iron, sodium, magnesium, copper, manganese, fluorine, sulfur, chlorine, iodine, germanium, silica, zinc.

Actions: Antibiotic, antibacterial, diuretic, expectorant, stimulant, digestive, stomachic, antiscorbutic, antiseptic and antioxidant tonic.

Medicinal uses: Since early times, the herb has had many uses. There are over 40 medicinal uses for watercress, and included the belief that the smell of watercress would drive away snakes and neutralize scorpion venom!

Watercress is known in herbal history as a spring-cleaning herb for purifying the blood and toning the whole system. Many of the great herbalists wrote of the revitalizing powers of watercress. It strengthens the nervous system.

Cress is also an important source of calcium, iron, vitamin A, and vitamins C and E, which are two anti-oxidant nutrients that help protect the cells from getting damaged by free radicals. It is rich in beta-carotene, vitamins, and minerals. The young garden cress spouts can also be eaten. Cress also helps to purify the blood and increase appetite.

Therapeutic uses: Coughs, head colds, bronchial ailments, tuberculosis, asthma, emphysema, stress, pain, arthritis, stiff back and joints, diabetes, anemia, constipation, cataracts, failing eyesight, night blindness, leukemia, cancer, hemorrhaging, heart conditions, eczema, scabies, body deodorizer, edema, bleeding gums, weight loss, indigestion, alcoholism, intestinal parasites, circulation, sluggish menstruation, lack of energy, kidney and gall stones, as a brain and nerve strengthener; ailments of the spleen, thyroid, and liver; to normalize cholesterol and blood pressure; for improved memory, for mental function decline and to retard aging; for failing or scant milk supply of nursing mothers; to regulate flow of bile, health of glands and the functions of body metabolism. It is one of the best sources of iodine, other than seaweed, such as kelp. Iodine is important for the functioning of the thyroid gland. The leaves used as a poultice are applied for relief from an enlarged prostate gland.

The chlorophyll-rich leaves are chewed to absorb breath odors. Dr. Robert Willner in ‘The Cancer Solution’ states that chlorophyll is an effective anti-cancer substance, with antioxidant action, helping to neutralize free radicals from chemicals, pesticides, cigarette smoke, diesel emissions, and many other environmental mutagens.

Chlorophyll is rich in digestive enzymes. These enzymes make it easier to digest heavy foods we eat, such as starches and protein. Also, it is said that the enzymes act as a catalyst, so that the food is more fully utilized and the body gets better benefit from vitamins and mineral content, and for this reason eating sprigs of watercress with our meals, is most beneficial. To get maximum benefit of enzyme action, the leaves need to be eaten raw, as cooking destroys enzymes.

Watercress contains more sulfur than any other vegetable, except horseradish. Sulfur-rich foods play an important role in protein absorption, blood purifying, cell-building, and in healthy hair and skin.

The potassium content of watercress is valued for weight loss, as its diuretic action draws excess fluid down and out of the body. Dieters will benefit from eating high-potassium foods and eliminating or cutting back on high-sodium foods, including salt. The rich calcium content of watercress has been encouraged for soft teeth and weak bone conditions.

The saying, ‘to eat cress’, was sometimes directed at people whose wits were believed to have deserted them! To relieve headaches, make an infusion with a handful of chopped watercress leaves and two cups of boiling water. Cool. Strain. Soak a Chux, soft cloth, or washer in the infusion and rest with it placed over the forehead.

In the Middle Ages, the Salernitan School of Medicine recommended rubbing the juice of watercress into the scalp to strengthen and thicken the hair.

Use watercress as a poultice for swollen feet and sprained ankles. Watercress is valued for clearing and improving the complexion, by eating and applying externally as a lotion. Fresh juice can be applied to the face and skin to fade freckles, spots, and blotches, and to clear acne, blemishes, pimples, and blackheads.

Culinary uses: The very best way to get the full nutritional value of watercress is to pick it just before a meal and eat it. It can be added to cooked dishes, salads, soup, stews, and stir-fries, just before serving. Garden cress is eaten fresh, there is no need to cook it. Add cress to salads, cottage cheese, egg dishes, tomatoes, potatoes and sandwiches. Use it in place of parsley as a garnish, and delight in the taste as a breath refresher after the meal.

In lock-jaw, and mania, it is of great advantage, a drop or two placed on the tongue will be sufficient. If externally applied it is a valuable counter-irritant; soon producing eruption, and therefore is a special remedy for inflammation of the chest. Watercress has also been used as a specific in tuberculosis.

-by Dr. Rizwan Ahmed

The Healing Of Honey

More than 1,400 years ago, Allah All-Mighty told us through His Messenger sallallaahu `alayhi wa sallam (may Allah exalt his mention) that honey can heal a variety of medical problems. Honey is a remarkable viscous liquid, prepared by bees from nectars of various plants. It has occupied a prominent place in traditional medicine throughout history. The ancient Egyptians, Assyrians, Chinese, Greeks, and Romans employed honey for different diseases.

The Noble Quran and many Prophetic narrations refer to honey as a great healer of disease. Allah, Almighty, Says (what means): “And your Lord inspired the bee, saying: “Take you habitations in the mountains and in the trees and in what they erect. Then, eat of all fruits, and follow the ways of your Lord made easy (for you).” There comes forth from their bellies, a drink of varying colors wherein is healing for men. Verily, in this is indeed a sign for people who think.” [Quran; 16: 68-69]

Abu Saeed Al-Khudri may Allah be pleased with him related that a man came to the Prophet sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam ( may Allaah exalt his mention ) and said: “My brother has some abdominal trouble.” The Prophet sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam ( may Allaah exalt his mention ) said to him “Let him drink honey.” The man returned to the Prophet sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam (may Allah exalt his mention) and said: “O Messenger of Allah! I let him drink honey, but it caused him more pain.” The Prophet sallallaahu `alayhi wa sallam (may Allah exalt his mention) said to him: “Go and let him drink honey!” The man went and let his brother drink honey, then returned and said: “O Messenger of Allah, it did not cause him except more pains.” The Prophet sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam (may Allah exalt his mention) then said: “Allah has said the truth, but your brother’s abdomen has told a lie. Let him drink honey.” So he made him drink honey and he was cured. [Al-Bukhaari and Muslim]

The Prophet sallallaahu `alayhi wa sallam (may Allah exalt his mention) also said: “Make use of the two remedies: honey and the Quran.” [At-Tirmithi, Ibn Maajah, and Al-Bayhaqi] Modern medicine is only just learning of this fact.

Benefits of honey:
1. Alleviates inflammation of the cornea if used locally on the eye.
2. An antibiotic if used locally in situations of wounds and burns, and it is used for healing of wounds:
§ In the case of wounds, honey absorbs moisture from the air, facilitates the healing process, and prevents scarring. This is because honey stimulates the growth of epithelial cells that form the new skin cover. In this way, honey may eliminate the need for tissue transplantation.
§ Honey stimulates the re-growth of tissue involved in the healing process. It stimulates the formation of new blood capillaries and the growth of fibroblasts that replace the connective tissue of the deeper layer of the skin and produce the collagen fibers that give strength to the repair.
§ Honey has an anti-inflammatory action, which reduces the swelling around a wound. This improves circulation and thus hastens the healing process.
§ Honey does not stick to the underlying wound tissues, so there is no tearing away of newly formed tissue, and no pain when dressings are changed.
§ Thanks to its antimicrobial properties, honey provides a protective barrier to prevent wounds from becoming infected. It also rapidly clears any existing infection from wounds. It is fully effective, even with antibiotic-resistant strains of bacteria.
§ Some studies showed that honey is a good treatment against the hospital infection bacteria “superbugs” (MRSA.)

3. As honey does not accommodate bacteria, this bactericide (bacteria-killing) property of honey is named “the inhibition effect.” There are various reasons for this anti-microbial property of the honey. Some examples are the high sugar content that limits the amount of water microorganisms need for growth, its high acidity (low pH), and its composition which deprives bacteria from nitrogen necessary for reproduction. The existence of hydrogen peroxide as well as antioxidants in the honey prevents bacteria growth.
4. Antioxidant: Those are the components in cells that get rid of harmful byproducts of normal metabolic functions. These elements inhibit destructive chemical reactions that cause spoilage of food and many chronic illnesses. Researchers believe food products rich in antioxidants may prevent heart problems and cancer. Strong antioxidants are present in honey: Pinocembrin, pinobaxin, chrisin, and galagin. Pinocembrin is an antioxidant that merely exists in the honey.
5. A treatment for gastric and duodenal ulcers, as honey decreases the secretion of hydrochloric acid to a normal rate, thus helping to heal such ulcers alleviate the related pains, and reduce resultant cases of vomiting and colic. For the treatment to be effective, honey should be taken dissolved in warm water one or two hours before meals.
6. A treatment for involuntary urination at beds. So, if the child is given one small spoon of honey before sleeping, this will have a positive effect, as honey is a sedative for the nervous system, thus helping the cyst to relax and expand during sleep.
7. It supports blood formation: Honey provides an important part of the energy needed by the body for blood formation. It helps in cleansing the blood. It has some positive effects in regulating and facilitating blood circulation. It also functions as a protection against capillary problems and arteriosclerosis.
8. A treatment for colds, flu, and pharyngitis.
9. A treatment for cases of chronic hepatitis, as honey increases the liver stock of glycogen material through the increase of blood glucose, thus helping the liver function properly and relieve it from more burdens.
10. A treatment for insomnia and a sedative for nerves, as it contains some sedative and tonic substances as sodium and potassium at a reasonable rate such.
11. A treatment for alcoholic poisoning. Fructose and vitamin B group in the honey help oxidize the alcohol remaining in the body.
12. A treatment for cough.
13. In cosmetics, a mixture of honey with lemon and glycerin is considered the best old medical prescription for the treatment of skin cracking and roughness, inflammation, and wounds of lips, sunstroke, and dermal pigments.
14. A treatment for muscular spasms of sportive exercises or facial spasms and eyelid muscles, which disappear after having one big spoon of honey for three days after each meal.
15. Has a low calorie level. When it is compared with the same amount of sugar, it gives 40% fewer calories to the body. Although it gives great energy to the body, it does not add weight. Furthermore, the use of honey is safe and has no allergic or side effects.
The Prophet sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam ( may Allaah exalt his mention )was right in his prescription for the ailing man. When the fourth treatment of honey was given to the man, he got better. Such is part of the knowledge that the Almighty has revealed to His Prophet sallallaahu `alayhi wa sallam may Allah exalt his mention).

Vinegar: Why Is It A Good Dip?

Jabir narrated, The Messenger of Allah (Sallallahu Alayhi Wasallam) took me one day with him to his house. He was served some bread. He asked: `Is there any dip?’ They replied ‘No, only some vinegar.’ He said, ‘Vinegar is a good dip.’

Jabir used to say, “I have loved vinegar since I heard it from Allah’s Prophet (Sallallahu Alayhi Wasallam)”. And Talhah ibn Naf’a said, “I have loved vinegar since I heard it from Jabir.” (Muslim, Abu Dawud, Nasaa’i)

What is Vinegar? And Why is it a Good Dip?
Vinegar is made by fermenting the juice of sweet fruits and grains such as barley, apple, and grape. The process of creating vinegar entails fermenting in an aerobic environment (in the presence of oxygen) as opposed to alcoholic fermentation, which is done in an anaerobic environment (in the absence of oxygen). The alcohol in these liquids is oxidized to acetic acid. Vinegar contains 4 percent or more acetic acid. Its color and tastes differ depending on its base.

Vinegar contains small amounts of protein and starch. 100g of vinegar has only 16 calories. It also contains sodium, potassium, calcium, magnesium, phosphorous, iron, zinc, and chlorine but it has no vitamins.

Ibn Seena (died 1037 CE) wrote in his famous book Al-Qanoon fit Tibb (the Canon of Medicine), that vinegar is a powerful clotting agent. If poured on an external wound, it will stop the bleeding and prevent swelling. It aids digestion and is an expectorant. It helps with felons (inflammation of the tissues of a finger or toe) and carbuncles (a kind of skin inflammation). It acts quickly on burns. When mixed with old and applied to the head, it helps with headaches caused by heat. It strengthens gums. It is an appetizer and aids digestion.

Vinegar Treats External Injuries
The Martin-Dale Encyclopaedia of Pharmaceuticals 1989 indicated that vinegar has many beneficial uses. Some are:

  1. To treat poisoning by alkaline (non-acidic) substances.
  2. To help reduce fevers by applying a cold pad to the forehead which is soaked with vinegar and water.
  3. To cure ‘black hairy tongue.’ a disease caused due to intake of antibiotics like penicillin, and tetracycline, by using vinegar once or twice daily for a week.
  4. To soothe pain caused by rheumatoid arthritis by applying a pad soaked with vinegar and water to painful joints.
  5. Treat bee and jellyfish stings by applying a mixture of equal amounts of salt and vinegar to the sting, relieving the pain and preventing inflammation.

Cider Vinegar
Professor John B.Yudkin wrote in the 1986 edition of the Penguin Encyclopaedia of Nutrition that Cider vinegar is known for its ability to cure several diseases. It helps in treating joint pain, rhinitis (inflammation of the nose), asthma, and gastric disorders and helps in losing weight.

Slight cases of diarrhea are a way by which the body gets rid of harmful substances that enter the digestive system. The 1989 edition of Dr. Micheal Sharon’s book, Complete Nutrition, stated that vinegar aids in treating diarrhea. It should be taken as one to two teaspoons of vinegar in a glass of boiled or mineral water several times a day.

Anti-Bacterial Remedy
Complete Nutrition also states. “Vinegar performs the role of disinfectant for the intestines. Some people advise it to be used for gargling for the mouth and throat. It disinfects the inside of the mouth from germs. The usual dosage for gargling is to mix one to three teaspoons of cider vinegar in a glass of water, in the morning and at night.”

Dr. Sharon ends his argument about cider vinegar by saying: “We always have to remember that cider vinegar will not have the same effect on everyone. Some may benefit from it and some may not. Very few people may be allergic to vinegar. Nevertheless, vinegar is beneficial for the majority of people.”

Timeless Black Seed

“There is healing in Black Cumin for all diseases except death.”

With it (water) He produces for you corn, olives, date palms, and grapes and every kind of fruit: Verily in this is a sign for those who give thought. (Al-Qur’an, 16:11)

Narrated by Abu Huraira: I heard Allah’s Apostle (PBUH) saying “There is healing in Black Cumin for all diseases except death.”

Muslims have been using and promoting the use of the “Black Seed” or “Al-habbat ul Sawda” for hundreds of years, and hundreds of articles have been written about it. Black seed has also been in use worldwide for over 3000 years. However, many Muslims do not realize that black seed is not only a prophetic herb, but it also holds a unique place in the medicine of the Prophet

Black seed is mentioned along with many other natural cures in the Hadeeth (sayings of the Prophet Muhammad PBUH) and in the Qur’an. However, many herbs and natural cures in the Hadeeth and Qur’an are simply “mentioned” briefly, leaving the bulk of the descriptive narrative up to later Islamic scholars such as Ibn Sina or Ibn Rushd.

Black seed is one of the few that is said to “cure all diseases except death.” It is unique in that it was not used profusely before the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) made its use popular, and it is one of the few herbs that is described in great detail in the Hadeeth with recipes and instructions on usage actually being found in the Hadeeth itself. Last, but not least, black seed has been studied by Muslims and non-Muslims alike.

Although there were more than 400 herbs in use before the Prophet Muhammad and recorded in the herbals of Galen and Hippocrates, black seed was not one of the most popular remedies of the time. Because of the way Islam has spread, the usage and popularity of black seed is widely known as a “remedy of the Prophet”. In fact, a large part of this herbal preparation’s popularity is based on the teachings of the Prophet. The Prophet not only mentioned the usefulness of black seed in his teachings but also gave specific instructions on how to prepare the seed for medical use.

“The Prophet’s Medicine” is a collection of Hadeeth that instruct Muslims on the subject of sickness or medical treatment. Because black seed is mentioned so prominently in these writings, all eminent and famous Hakims of the past and present have written on the medicinal benefits and healing properties of “kalonji.” In fact, since it was made popular in the Seventh Century, there has not been a period in Muslim history when the use of it was ever stopped. At all times the seed was utilized with the belief and faith that benefits will be derived from practicing the Holy Prophet’s Sunnah (Hana, 2001).

The black seed (Nigella sativa) is an example of a prophetic remedy that has been studied extensively by both Muslims and non-Muslims. Nigella sativa has been used since antiquity by Asian herbalists and pharmacists and was used by the Romans for culinary purposes. The name Nigella comes from the Latin word nigellus, meaning black. Nigella sativa is small matte black grains with a rough surface and an oily white interior, similar to onion seeds. The seeds have little bouquets, though when rubbed, their aroma resembles oregano. They have a slightly bitter, peppery flavor and a crunchy texture. The seeds may be used whole or ground and are usually fried or roasted before use (they are easily crushed in a mortar).

However, although the seeds have been used for thousands of years in the kitchen, they have also been useful in the pharmacy. Ahmad Akhtar studied the effects of the black seed on nematode worm infections in children (Akhtar, 1999). The black seeds contain over 100 valuable components. Black seed is also a significant source of fatty acids, proteins, carbohydrates, and other vitamins and minerals. The seeds are rich in sterols, especially beta-sitosterol, which is known to have anti-carcinogenic activity (Tierra). The seeds are also known to repel certain insects and can be used in the same way as mothballs.

Black seed is also used in India as a spice and condiment and occasionally in Europe as both a pepper substitute and a spice. It is widely used in Indian cuisine, particularly in mildly braised lamb dishes such as korma. It is also added to vegetables and dhal dishes as well as to chutneys. The seeds are sprinkled on naan (bread) before baking and to some Garam Masala and Panch Phoran mixtures.

The Indians also use black seed medicinally as a carminative and stimulant, and to treat indigestion and bowel complaints. It is also used to induce post-uterine contractions and promote lactation.

However, despite the cure-all benefits of black seed, it must still be used with wisdom and caution. “The seed yields a volatile oil containing melanthin, nigellone, damascene, and tannin. Melanthin is toxic in large dosages and nigellone is paralytic, so the spice must be used in moderation (the epicenter).