Miswak Guide for Smokers Dr. Rami Mohammed Sami Diabi MD. Public Health Diploma of W.H.O. www.quitcliniconline.com Scientific Director

What is Miswak ? A roots or brunches of Salvadora Persica plant ( Al-Araak) Its usually sold in Pharmacies , Book shops and super markets , or in front of Mesjeds like in Saudi Salvadora Persica plant

Why its used ? Miswak is a common name for Salvadore persica ( tooth brush tree) popularly used in Saudi Arabia and the Arab world. Miswak is a stick made from the roots of the Arak tree. Miswak wicks clean between the teeth and do not break under any amount of pressure, rather they are flexible and strong. The small wicks bend to the appropriate shape to clear the plaque and left over food in between the teeth avoiding any damage to gums.

Miswak Importance in Islam http://www.medicine.cu.edu.eg/english/students/forum//showthread.php?t=1832 A SUNNAH OF PROPHET (SAS) – MISWAAK Ibn Umar (R) narrates that the Messenger of Allah (Sallallahu Alayhi Wasallam) said: 'Make a regular practice of the Miswaak, for verily, it is healthy for the mouth and it is a pleasure for the Creator (i.e. Allah is pleased with the Muslim who uses the Miswaak)'." (BUKHARI)sahih Abu Hurairah (R) narrates that Rasulullah (Sallallahu Alayhi Wasallam) said: 'Was it not for my fear of imposing a difficulty on my Ummah I would have ordered that the Miswaak be used for every Salaat'." (BUKHARI) sahih MISWAAK UPON ENTERING HOME Shuraih (R) narrates that he asked Aisha (R): 'What was the first thing Rasulullah (Sallallahu Alayhi Wasallam) did upon entering the house?' Aisha (R) replied: 'Rasulullah (Sallallahu Alayhi Wasallam) would use Miswaak'." (MUSLIM) MISWAAK UPON LEAVING HOME "Whenever Rasulullah (Sallallahu Alayhi Wasallam) left the house he would use Miswaak." (KASHFUL GHUMMAH) MISWAAK BEFORE AND AFTER MEALS Abu Hurairah (R) said: "I have used Miswaak before sleeping, after rising, before eating and after eating, ever since I heard the Nabi (Sallallahu Alayhi Wasallam) advising so'." (AHMAD) MISWAAK BEFORE RECITING THE HOLY QUR'AAN Samra narrates that the messenger of Allah _Sallallahu Alayhi Wasaallam_said: 'Verily, your mouths are the pathways of the Qur'aan (i.e. you recite with your mouth), therefore cleanse your mouth with Miswaak thoroughly'." MISWAAK DURING FASTING Aamir Bin Rabiyah (R) narrates: 'I have seen Rasulullah (Sallallahu Alayhi Wasallam) using Miswaak many a time while fasting'." (IBN MAJAH) MISWAAK prior to sleep and after rising up Hadhrat Abu Hurairah (R) narrates: "The Messenger of Allah (Sallallahu Alayhi Wasallam) would use Miswaak (regularly) prior to sleeping and after rising from sleep." (MUNTAKHAB)

Miswak was the last advice of Prophet Mohammed PBUH before he leave life, this meant to me a great value of this Sunnah , thus I spent years on its research discovering many great secrets of health and facts, Dr Rami Diabi

Miswak Importance in health Miswak, nature’s dentist By Dr Saji D’Souza Miswak is a common name for Salvadore persica ( tooth brush tree) popularly used in Saudi Arabia and the Arab world. Miswak is a stick made from the roots of the Arak tree. Miswak wicks clean between the teeth and do not break under any amount of pressure, rather they are flexible and strong. The small wicks bend to the appropriate shape to clear the plaque and left over food in between the teeth avoiding any damage to gums. The chemical analysis of Miswak shows that it contains trimethylamine, salvadorine, chlorides, fluorides in large amounts, silica, sulphur, vitamin C and small quantities of tannins, saponins, flavenoids and sterols. According to the Holy Quran brushing with Miswak wicks, fasting during the ‘Holy Month — Ramadan’ and pronouncing the word ‘Allah’ is the best and surest way to attain purity, sanctity and holiness. Miswak has many medicinal properties. It is excellent for fighting against plaques, recession of gums, bleeding gums, and periodontal pocket depths. The stick releases fresh sap and silica (hard glossy material) which acts as an abrasive material to remove stains. The advantage of using Miswak is that it cleans teeth gently and effectively, whitens the teeth without harming enamel or gum. It works excellently for toothache, prevents oral habits like smoking in adults and thumb sucking in children, improves appetite and regularizes peristaltic movements of the gastro-intestinal tract The chloride content helps to remove the plaque and tartar stains and vitamin C contributes to the healing and repair of the tissues. Its anti-oxidant properties keeps each and every cell active. Brushing the teeth with Miswak or gargling with the extracts stops bad breath, prevents any oral infections, heals and cures all sort of bacterial manifestations, etc. Its bacterial activity is so high that it attacks both aerobic as well as anaerobic bacteria and protects the oral cavity upto 12 hours with a single usage. It’s analgesic, anti-inflammatory, anti-microbial and anti-bacterial properties which ensures a long-lasting protection against cavities, tooth caries, plaque, tartar, gum problems, gingivitis and bad breath even earned a recommendation from WHO to use it as an effective tool for oral hygiene. It is an effective natural disinfectant to stop bleeding gums. It disinfects the gums and teeth and helps in closing any microscopic cuts in the gums. Its anti-bacterial activity fights decay, diarrhoea, dysentry and irritable bowel syndrome. And moreover the aroma of Miswak really gives a long lasting refreshing smell in the mouth. The extracts of it is used to clean face as an astringent to prevent acne and dark blemishes. . One teaspoon of Miswak’s extract is a very good appetiser, increases the sense of taste, activates digestion, relieves flatulence and provides a good sense of well being. Tannins and resins have an astringent effect on the mucous membrane. The alkaloids and sulphur tend to aid its anti-bacterial activities. One teaspoon of its extract taken internally relieves head ache, common cold, nausea, tensions, dizziness, fatigue, etc. It is an excellent memory booster and improves concentration power. Its extracts taken regularly reduces cholestrol, obesity and keeps a check on blood pressure. Apart from that it is used in deodorants, air fresheners, insect repellents, toilet cleaners, dish washers, etc. Even though it has multiple uses, its usage as an oral health care is the most acclaimed aspect. It is an unavoidable ingredient in tooth powders, tooth pastes, mouth washers and other oral hygienic devices. Hence regular usage of Miswak keeps your dentist away for sure. (The writer is an Ayurvedic Specialist and can be contacted on 98490-21743) mzmsiddiqui@hotmail.com

Miswak Importance in Medicine Ref: MARDAT association. For Miswak Researches Researches on Miswak in Saudi Dental Journal Miswak TC Miswak in WIkipedia Miswak, nature’s dentist By Dr Saji D’Souza Miswak is a common name for Salvadore persica ( tooth brush tree) popularly used in Saudi Arabia and the Arab world. Miswak is a stick made from the roots of the Arak tree. Miswak wicks clean between the teeth and do not break under any amount of pressure, rather they are flexible and strong. The small wicks bend to the appropriate shape to clear the plaque and left over food in between the teeth avoiding any damage to gums. The chemical analysis of Miswak shows that it contains trimethylamine, salvadorine, chlorides, fluorides in large amounts, silica, sulphur, vitamin C and small quantities of tannins, saponins, flavenoids and sterols. According to the Holy Quran brushing with Miswak wicks, fasting during the ‘Holy Month — Ramadan’ and pronouncing the word ‘Allah’ is the best and surest way to attain purity, sanctity and holiness. Miswak has many medicinal properties. It is excellent for fighting against plaques, recession of gums, bleeding gums, and periodontal pocket depths. The stick releases fresh sap and silica (hard glossy material) which acts as an abrasive material to remove stains. The advantage of using Miswak is that it cleans teeth gently and effectively, whitens the teeth without harming enamel or gum. It works excellently for toothache, prevents oral habits like smoking in adults and thumb sucking in children, improves appetite and regularizes peristaltic movements of the gastro-intestinal tract The chloride content helps to remove the plaque and tartar stains and vitamin C contributes to the healing and repair of the tissues. Its anti-oxidant properties keeps each and every cell active. Brushing the teeth with Miswak or gargling with the extracts stops bad breath, prevents any oral infections, heals and cures all sort of bacterial manifestations, etc. Its bacterial activity is so high that it attacks both aerobic as well as anaerobic bacteria and protects the oral cavity upto 12 hours with a single usage. It’s analgesic, anti-inflammatory, anti-microbial and anti-bacterial properties which ensures a long-lasting protection against cavities, tooth caries, plaque, tartar, gum problems, gingivitis and bad breath even earned a recommendation from WHO to use it as an effective tool for oral hygiene. It is an effective natural disinfectant to stop bleeding gums. It disinfects the gums and teeth and helps in closing any microscopic cuts in the gums. Its anti-bacterial activity fights decay, diarrhoea, dysentry and irritable bowel syndrome. And moreover the aroma of Miswak really gives a long lasting refreshing smell in the mouth. The extracts of it is used to clean face as an astringent to prevent acne and dark blemishes. . One teaspoon of Miswak’s extract is a very good appetiser, increases the sense of taste, activates digestion, relieves flatulence and provides a good sense of well being. Tannins and resins have an astringent effect on the mucous membrane. The alkaloids and sulphur tend to aid its anti-bacterial activities. One teaspoon of its extract taken internally relieves head ache, common cold, nausea, tensions, dizziness, fatigue, etc. It is an excellent memory booster and improves concentration power. Its extracts taken regularly reduces cholestrol, obesity and keeps a check on blood pressure. Apart from that it is used in deodorants, air fresheners, insect repellents, toilet cleaners, dish washers, etc. Even though it has multiple uses, its usage as an oral health care is the most acclaimed aspect. It is an unavoidable ingredient in tooth powders, tooth pastes, mouth washers and other oral hygienic devices. Hence regular usage of Miswak keeps your dentist away for sure. (The writer is an Ayurvedic Specialist and can be contacted on 98490-21743) mzmsiddiqui@hotmail.com

How to use Miswak: The method of preparing a Miswaak for use is to cut a branch or root of the Arak tree into pieces between 10 cm and 20cm in length, and between 4mm and 14mm in diameter. Occasionally some are thicker than this. Fresh Miswaak is brown in color, with a hot, pleasant taste. People usually strip off some of the Miswaak's thin bark from one end, then chew that end a little to separate the fibers so that they become like the fibers of a normal toothbrush. They then use it to brush their teeth.

Timing of using Miswak The Prophetic guidance: The Prophet Muhammad recommended Muslims to clean their teeth using a Miswaak every day; especially upon waking up, when performing ablution, before prayer, when reciting the Quran, before sleeping, when entering the house, and when the mouth has a foul odor

Length and diameter: A length of 15cm is recommended, which is convenient to grip, and easy to manipulate in a confined space. The diameter is normally less than 1 centimeter, which provides a supple stick firm enough to transmit the pressure of the cleansing action to the teeth without breaking.

Freshness: Miswaak should be freshly cut so that it is supple, easily chewed, and still rich in active constituents. The root should be whitish-brown in color; a dark brown color indicates that the Miswaak is no longer fresh. If a stick is dry, the end for chewing should initially be soaked in fresh water for 24 hours. It should be noted that soaking for unduly long periods causes loss of active constituents and diminishes the therapeutic properties, although the mechanical effects on the teeth can still occur. The end: Before Miswaak is used, the end should be washed with water. It is then chewed repeatedly until the fibers stand out like the bristles of a toothbrush. These fibers should be trimmed every 24 hours.

Brushing technique: The techniques employed for removing plaque mechanically are similar to that for the toothbrush and the chewing stick; i.e., vertical and horizontal brushing. The cleaning movement should always be directed away from the gingival margin of the teeth (away from the gums) on both the buccal (outer cheek) and lingual (inner cheek) surfaces. Care should be taken to avoid damaging the soft tissues of the mouth. Satisfactory cleaning can be achieved if this procedure is followed for five minutes. There are two basic holds: Pen-grip (three-finger) or palm-grip (five finger-grip). In each case the aim is to ensure firm but controlled movement of the brush end of the Miswaak within the oral cavity, so that every area of the mouth is reached with relative ease and convenience.

Common mistakes in Miswaak use: 1. The end is either too thin or too thick. 2. Keeping it in the mouth while doing other things. 3. Not cutting the end every day. 4. Forgetting that teeth have five faces (inner, outer, two sides, and biting/chewing face), and only using Miswaak to clean the outer faces.

Scientific comparison between Miswaak and toothbrushes: A clinical trial study on Ethiopian schoolchildren, comparing Miswaak with the conventional toothbrush, found Miswaak to be as effective as the toothbrush in removing oral deposits. The study also found instruction and supervision to be important since the children in the sample were not familiar with techniques for using Miswaak.

Cytotoxicity: Results of cytotoxictests showed no cytotoxic (cell damaging) effects from using freshly cut Miswaak. However, the same plant used 24 hours after cutting did contain harmful components. Based on these findings, researchers recommend cutting the used portion of the Miswaak after it has been used for a day and preparing a fresh part. http://www.islamweb.net/ver2/archive/article.php?lang=E&id=139420 Miswaak: The natural toothbrush The Miswaak was known before Islam, but Islam added a religious perspective to its usage. The Prophetic guidance: The Prophet Muhammad recommended Muslims to clean their teeth using a Miswaak every day; especially upon waking up, when performing ablution, before prayer, when reciting the Quran, before sleeping, when entering the house, and when the mouth has a foul odor. There are many Prophetic narrations that talk about Miswaak. Following are some of them: ‘Aa'ishah related that the Prophet said: "Ten things are part of one’s natural disposition: Trimming the moustache, growing a beard, (using) the Miswaak, sniffing water, cutting the nails, washing hands, plucking armpits, shaving pubic hair, and conserving water." [Muslim] Furthermore, he highlighted its importance, saying: "If it were not that it would create hardship for my people, I would have ordered them to use the Miswaak with every ablution and with every prayer." [Al-Bukhaari] Medical discoveries: The Miswaak is a natural tool for brushing the teeth. It is taken from the roots and branches of particular desert trees. It differs from one region to another, but in Arabia and Asia it is taken from the Arak tree. This is the most famous variety, and is the kind that was used by the Prophet . Its scientific name is Salvadora Persica. It is a tree that grows in hot equatorial countries, especially in desert valleys. It is widespread in the South of Saudi Arabia, Yemen, Sudan, Egypt, and elsewhere.    Salvador Persica is an upright evergreen small tree or shrub, seldom more than one foot in diameter, reaching a maximum height of three meters. The leaves are small, oval, thick and succulent with a strong smell of cress or mustard. The Miswaak is also obtained from other trees. In Africa, for example, it is cut from Lime and Orange trees, and in America some are cut from the Senna tree. As the Arak tree is so well-known, and as it was the kind that the Prophet used, it has been scientifically studied. The following summarize the various discoveries regarding Miswaak. Health effects of Miswaak: Physically, the Miswaak is a natural toothbrush. It is composed of a compact group of minute natural fibers that perform exactly the same function as a normal toothbrush except that it is made of natural rather than plastic fibers. For this reason it may be more gentle on the gums. Miswaak's natural toothpaste is made up of many substances that are important for cleaning teeth. Many researchers have studied the Miswaak in depth, and have proven that Miswaak contains over ten different natural chemical compounds considered essential for good oral and dental hygiene. They are: fluoride, silica, tannic acid, resins, alkaloids (salvadorine), volatile oils (sinigrin), sulfur vitamin C, sodium bicarbonate, chlorides, calcium, benzylisothiocyanate (BIT), and others including salicylic acids, sterols, trimethylamine, saponins, flavenoids. Some of these components are stain removers and teeth whiteners, some protect teeth against caries, some are bactericidal and antiseptic, some help in healing and to repair tissues, some promote remineralization (building) of tooth enamel, and some give the pleasant taste and smell.       Cytotoxicity: Results of cytotoxictests showed no cytotoxic (cell damaging) effects from using freshly cut Miswaak. However, the same plant used 24 hours after cutting did contain harmful components. Based on these findings, researchers recommend cutting the used portion of the Miswaak after it has been used for a day and preparing a fresh part. Scientific comparison between Miswaak and toothbrushes: A clinical trial study on Ethiopian schoolchildren, comparing Miswaak with the conventional toothbrush, found Miswaak to be as effective as the toothbrush in removing oral deposits. The study also found instruction and supervision to be important since the children in the sample were not familiar with techniques for using Miswaak. How to use Miswaak: The method of preparing a Miswaak for use is to cut a branch or root of the Arak tree into pieces between 10 cm and 20cm in length, and between 4mm and 14mm in diameter. Occasionally some are thicker than this. Fresh Miswaak is brown in color, with a hot, pleasant taste. People usually strip off some of the Miswaak's thin bark from one end, then chew that end a little to separate the fibers so that they become like the fibers of a normal toothbrush. They then use it to brush their teeth. Length and diameter: A length of 15cm is recommended, which is convenient to grip, and easy to manipulate in a confined space. The diameter is normally less than 1 centimeter, which provides a supple stick firm enough to transmit the pressure of the cleansing action to the teeth without breaking. Freshness: Miswaak should be freshly cut so that it is supple, easily chewed, and still rich in active constituents. The root should be whitish-brown in color; a dark brown color indicates that the Miswaak is no longer fresh. If a stick is dry, the end for chewing should initially be soaked in fresh water for 24 hours. It should be noted that soaking for unduly long periods causes loss of active constituents and diminishes the therapeutic properties, although the mechanical effects on the teeth can still occur. The end: Before Miswaak is used, the end should be washed with water. It is then chewed repeatedly until the fibers stand out like the bristles of a toothbrush. These fibers should be trimmed every 24 hours.    Brushing technique: The techniques employed for removing plaque mechanically are similar to that for the toothbrush and the chewing stick; i.e., vertical and horizontal brushing. The cleaning movement should always be directed away from the gingival margin of the teeth (away from the gums) on both the buccal (outer cheek) and lingual (inner cheek) surfaces. Care should be taken to avoid damaging the soft tissues of the mouth. Satisfactory cleaning can be achieved if this procedure is followed for five minutes. There are two basic holds: Pen-grip (three-finger) or palm-grip (five finger-grip). In each case the aim is to ensure firm but controlled movement of the brush end of the Miswaak within the oral cavity, so that every area of the mouth is reached with relative ease and convenience. When to use Miswaak: In general, the Miswaak should be used a minimum of five times a day (i.e. before each prayer). However it is recommended to use it all the time, whenever possible.  Common mistakes in Miswaak use: 1. The end is either too thin or too thick. 2. Keeping it in the mouth while doing other things. 3. Not cutting the end every day. 4. Forgetting that teeth have five faces (inner, outer, two sides, and biting/chewing face), and only using Miswaak to clean the outer faces. [From: Al Jumu'ah Magazine] Friday : 01/06/2007 Related Articles   Fever: a blessing in disguise   The Prophet's guidance on treating wounds and cuts   The healing of honey  Fatwa Center Fatwa Of The Week Selected Fatwa View By Subject Enter QuestionHome Page Current Affairs Photo Gallery E-Books Palestine Guest Book Hajj & Umrah Ramadhaan OasisMuslim Personality Soul Purification Islamic EtiquetteServices Prayer Times Weather Forecast Julian Date Converter YOUR E-MAIL ADDRESS     How do you evaluate our audio lectures?   Excellent Good Fair      Results<< All rights reserved to IslamWeb©. 1998-2007

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Using Miswak to Quit Smoking

Video references : Arabic Videos: Miswak using guide - Miswakology introduction 1 Miswak using guide - Miswakology -2- You Don’t Need Toothbrush ( we are an old medical school) English Videos: Miswak Using Guide 1 ( kinds of Miswak) Miswak Using Guide 2 ( Miswak 4 Oral Health ) Ref: Researches on Miswak as a quit tool: QCO scientific documents web site