Miswak and Science (Part 1)

Miswak is a twig 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). 

It is a "natural toothbrush" which, not only provides spiritual benefits, but is beneficial to the everyday maintenance of mouth, gums, and teeth. Our Holy Prophet (S.A.W), taught us more than 1400 years ago to use the Miswak to clean our teeth and mouth to remove foul odour.

Hazrat Anas (R.A), quoted the Holy Prophet (S.A.W) as saying: "Whenever Hazrat Jabrail (A.S) would visit me, he would advise me to use the Miswak." It has also been used by all the previous Prophets (A.S).

The leftovers of food found between the teeth provide an excellent environment for the festering of bacteria. This mass of bacteria that grows on surfaces within the mouth is also known as plaque. The build up of plaque can lead to painful cysts and gum disease. Bacteria also produces damaging enzymes that engulf calcium, causing tooth decay. Bacteria also produces gases that emit nasty smells from the mouth.

Recent studies have found that Miswak has natural minerals that kill microbes and germs and remove plaque. This highlights the practice of Holy Prophet (S.A.W) as He used to rub the Miswak over His Blessed tongue, teeth and gums.

Ever wondered why the Miswak is better than a toothbrush? Even though both are supposedly used to clean our teeth! After many years of research it is shown that after the brush is used the first time it becomes harmful to one's health. Reason being, a bed of germs settles each time toothbrush is used even if washed with water, the germs multiply. This is why toothbrush needs to be replaced regularly. Miswak does not need to be changed as bristles are replenished by the lower part of twig. Toothbrush also removes the natural brightness and whiteness of the teeth whereas Miswak not only removes plaque, it also restore teeth’s natural shine.

The added advantage is that bacteria cannot grow on the Miswak eliminating the need to change it regularly.