The Magical Miswak: A Traditional Solution to Combat Bad Breath During Ramadan
During the holy month of Ramadan, Muslims worldwide fast from dawn to dusk, refraining from food and drink. This practice can lead to bad breath due to decreased saliva production, which normally protects the mouth from bacteria and removes food debris.
To combat this issue, many fasting individuals turn to miswak, a traditional chewing stick, to keep their mouths fresh and maintain dental health throughout the month.
Miswak has gained widespread recognition, with the World Health Organization recommending the use of miswak for oral hygiene in both 1986 and 2000. (Supplied)
Dr. Abdulaziz Al-Saif, a dentist in Riyadh, highlighted the benefits of miswak, stating, “To avoid bad breath, the magical miswak does wonders. Miswak is a natural toothbrush that, among other benefits, also creates a fragrance in the mouth.”
Another dentist, Dr. Aisha Ali Ahmad, added, “Miswak eliminates bad odors and improves the sense of taste, sharpens memory, strengthens eyesight, assists in digestion, and clears the voice.”
Historical texts emphasize the importance of miswak, with various ahadith documenting its elevated status. The Prophet Muhammad once expressed his desire to make the use of miswak mandatory for Muslims, underscoring its significance in oral hygiene.
HIGHLIGHTS
• In Saudi Arabia, miswak is typically sourced from the Salvadora persica L. trees, known as arak in Arabic.
• To use a miswak, bite off around a centimeter of the twig and chew until it softens and forms bristles.
Miswak is commonly sourced from Salvadora persica L. trees in Saudi Arabia, with similar varieties found in Sudan, Egypt, and Chad. These trees not only provide miswak but also aid in preventing desertification and supporting local communities.
The World Health Organization has recognized the benefits of miswak for oral hygiene, prompting further research into its medicinal properties. Studies have shown that miswak can combat dental issues such as plaque, gum disease, and tooth decay effectively.
A panel of dentists at King Saud University found that miswak’s natural substances benefit dental health, surpassing the effects of conventional toothbrushes and paste. The stick’s unique bristles and natural antiseptics contribute to improved oral hygiene.
To use miswak, individuals can chew on the twig until it forms bristles, allowing for effective teeth cleaning without the need for toothpaste. This ancient practice is common in Saudi Arabia, the Middle East, North Africa, and various Asian countries.
During Ramadan, sales of miswak soar in Saudi Arabia as Muslims incorporate it into their daily rituals. Abdullah Ahmed, a miswak seller, anticipates a significant increase in sales during the holy month.