The Importance of Miswak

A group of dentists at King Saud University in the Saudi Arabia have studied the medicinal properties of the miswak, or teeth cleaning sticks, commonly used in Arab and Asian countries, and have concluded that the beneficial effects of the miswak for oral hygiene and dental health are equal to, if not greater than, those of a toothbrush and toothpaste.

The research identified a total of 19 natural substances found within the miswak that benefit dental health. It contains a number of natural antiseptics that kill harmful microorganisms in the mouth; tannic acids that protect the gums from disease; and aromatic oils that increase salivation. Because of its built-in antiseptics, the miswak needs no cleaning, and because its bristles are parallel to the handle rather than perpendicular, it can reach more easily between the teeth, where a conventional toothbrush often misses.

"The Prophet said, "It (i.e. Siwak) is a purification for the mouth and it is a way of seeking Allah's pleasures." 

Dr. Hani Saeed, a dentist and a professor at Dhamar University, believes the miswak has benefits, but can be over used. “I am against the daily use of the miswak because it can grind down the enamel of teeth,” he said. “If it is used no more than once per week, the stick is fine, but I discourage people from using it any more than that.”

“I always clean my teeth using the miswak after every prayer during Ramadan month. It gives me a fresh and good breath, and I feel better to have clean teeth and healthy gums,” said Malika Farah, 22, student at Sana’a University.

Many Muslims use the miswak on the recommendation of the Prophet Mohammed, who said, “Siwak cleanses the mouth and pleases the Lord”, and “if I had not found it hard for my followers or the people, I would have ordered them to clean their teeth with siwak for every prayer.” 

“I use the miswak during Ramadan more than during other months of year because I heard an advisory opinion warning Muslims not to use toothpaste during fasting since it nullifies fasting,” said Sana’a University student, Umm Anas, 23. “I also use this stick to clean my teeth during Ramadan because I like to do what our Prophet used to do during his life,” she said. 

By contrast with the conventional plastic toothbrush, the miswak can be used any time, anywhere. It completely eliminates the need for toothpaste squeezing, vigorous brushing, foaming at the mouth or spitting.

●Miswaak Quick View of Benefits:

1. Miswaak strengthens the gums and prevents tooth decay.

2. Miswaak assists in eliminating toothaches and prevents further increase of decay which has already set in.

3. Miswaak creates a fragrance in the mouth.

4. Miswaak is a cure for illness.

5. Miswaak eliminates bad odors and improves the sense of taste.

6. Miswaak sharpens the memory.

7. Miswaak is a cure for headaches.

8. Miswaak creates lustre (noor) on the face of the one who continually uses it.

9. Miswaak causes the teeth to glow.

10. Miswaak strengthens the eyesight.

11. Miswaak assists in digestion.

12. Miswaak clears the voice.

13. The greatest benefit of using miswaak is gaining the pleasure of Allah.

14. The reward of Salaah (Prayers) is multiplied 70 times if Miswaak was used before it.

●Times when usage of Miswaak is Sunnah:

1. For the recitation of the Qur'an.

2. For the recitation of Hadith.

3. When the mouth emits and odor.

4. For the learning or teaching of virtues of Islam.

5. For making Dhikrullah (Remebrance of Allah, meditation).

6. After entering ones home.

7. Before entering any good gathering.

8. When experiencing pangs of hunger and thirst.

9. After the signs of death are evident.

10. At the time of Sehri.

11. Before meals.

12. Before undertaking a journey.

13. On returning from a journey.

14. Before sleeping.

15. Upon awakening.

●How long should a Miswaak be?

A Miswaak should not be longer than a "span" i.e. the maximum distance between the tips of the thumb and little finger, and it should not be thicker than a finger's breadth.

●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.