Miswaak

What is Miswaak?

Miswaaks are twigs of certain trees (i.e. Peelu, Olive trees) that have been used on a regular basis by Muslims for centuries, to maintain oral hygiene and gain the pleasure of Allah (S.W.T).  All the Prophets (peace be upon them) have also used these. It is a "natural toothbrush" which, not only provides spiritual benefits, but is beneficial to the everyday maintenance of mouth, gums, and teeth.
 
It is Sunnah to use Miswaak every time you perform wuzu.

Salaat performed after using Miswaak, is seventy times more virtuous than salaat performed without using Miswaak.

Benefits:
There are 70 benefits of using Miswaak. One of the greatest benefits is that the tongue will recite the kalimah at the time of death.

Here are a few more benefits of using the Miswaak:

• Eliminates bad odour and improves the sense of taste
• Sharpens the Memory and the Intelligence
• Is a cure for headaches
• Strengthens the eye-sight
• Assists in the process of Digestion
  

How long should a Miswaak be?
A Miswaak should not be longer than a hand span (i.e. the maximum distance between the tip of the thumb and the little finger) and it should not be thicker than a finger.

How should it be used?
A Miswaak should be held in such a manner that the small finger and thumb is below the Miswaak and the remaining fingers on its upper side.