Honey, known as عَسَل in Arabic, has long been revered not only as a natural sweetener but also as a potent remedy in both and modern scientific research. The significance of honey in Islamic tradition is profound, as it is mentioned in the Qur’an, praised in Hadith, and extensively discussed by classical Islamic scholars. In contrast to the experimental nature of modern medicine, Prophetic medicine is rooted in divine revelation and the wisdom of the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, offering a holistic approach to healing that integrates physical, spiritual, and emotional well-being.
Honey in the Qur’an: A Divine Prescription
The Qur’an explicitly highlights the therapeutic properties of honey in Surah An-Nahl (16:68-69):
“And your Lord inspired the bees: “Make ˹your˺ homes in the mountains, the trees, and in what people construct,and feed from ˹the flower of˺ any fruit ˹you please˺ and follow the ways your Lord has made easy for you.” From their bellies comes forth liquid of varying colours, in which there is healing for people. Surely in this is a sign for those who reflect.” (Surah An-Nahl: 68-69)
This verse not only underscores the miraculous nature of bees but also affirms the healing power of honey, making it a divinely endorsed remedy. Scholars like Al-Razi and Al-Maraghi have elaborated on this, noting the complex biological and chemical processes involved in honey production and its therapeutic applications.(Al-Razi, 2000, 20: 60, Al-Maraghi, 1946, 14: 106).
refers to the chemical richness of honey, which contains 25–40% glucose, 30–45% fructose, and 15–25% water. He emphasizes that honey is a natural tonic and detoxifier, effective against various poisons (e.g., arsenic, mercury) and diseases like typhoid, pneumonia, and liver disorders. Its high glucose content makes it a powerful remedy in both traditional and modern medicine. 📚 Reference: Al-Maraghi, Tafsir al-Maraghi, 14:106
Al-Razi’s Interpretation
Al-Razi offers a philosophical and scientific reflection on the verse. He notes that bees are divinely inspired to perform complex tasks like building hexagonal hives and collecting nectar. He interprets the verse as a sign of divine wisdom, where Allah has created beneficial substances in the air and on plants, which bees collect and transform into honey. This process, he says, is a miracle of creation and a testament to Allah’s purposeful design. 📚 Reference: Al-Razi, Tafsir al-Kabir, 20:60
Shaykh Abdus Salam Bhuttavi’s Interpretation
Shaykh Bhuttavi focuses on the organizational marvel of the bee colony as described in the verse:
“وَأَوْحَى رَبُّكَ إِلَى النَّحْلِ”
He explains that bees live under a monarchic system with a single queen, and each bee has a designated role—guards, nurses, architects, and foragers. He highlights the precision of the hexagonal hive, the bees’ strict hygiene, and their instinctive navigation back to their hive, even from great distances. This, he says, is a manifestation of Allah’s power and guidance. 📚 Reference: Tafsir of Surah An-Nahl, Ayah 67 by Shaykh Abdus Salam Bhuttavi
Scientific Validation of Honey’s Healing Properties
Modern science has begun to catch up with what Islamic scholars and the Prophet ﷺ emphasized centuries ago. A study conducted at a medical center in Amsterdam revealed that honey possesses antibacterial properties capable of eliminating harmful pathogens in the human body. According to Peter and Thanya (2005), honey acts as a biologic wound dressing with multiple bioactivities that accelerate the healing process.(Peter and Thanya, 2005) This aligns with the traditional Islamic view that honey is not just food but also medicine.
Prophetic Medicine vs. Conventional Medicine
The distinction between Prophetic medicine and conventional medical practices is profound. While modern medicine often relies on hypotheses, experimentation, and observation, Prophetic medicine is based on divine guidance and the perfect intellect of the Prophet ﷺ. Scholars like Ibn al-Qayyim and al-Dhahabi have documented the numerous benefits of honey, including its ability to:
Cleanse impurities from the veins
Dissolve phlegm
Strengthen the body
Purify the liver and chest
Act as a diuretic
Treat insect and dog bites
These insights are not merely anecdotal but are supported by centuries of Islamic medical literature and clinical observations.(al-Dhahabi, 1990, 151-153, Ibn al-Qayyim, 25).
The Miraculous Design of the Honeybee: A Testament to Divine Wisdom
The honeybee is not just a producer of honey—it is a marvel of divine engineering. The Qur’an’s reference to bees is not merely symbolic; it reflects a deep biological and ecological truth.Islamic Scholar Sheikh Abdul Salam Bhattawi have elaborated on the complex social structure and organizational intelligence of bees, which live under a monarchic system governed by a single queen.(Tafseer Al Quran ul Kareem Surah Nahl Ayat:68-69) This queen is distinct in size and form and is fed a special diet known as غذاء الملکہ (royal jelly), which is highly nutritious and enables her to lay between 6,000 to 12,000 eggs in just three weeks.
Each bee in the hive has a specific role—some are guards, some are architects building the hexagonal cells, others are nurses, foragers, or soldiers. The hexagonal structure of the hive is a geometric marvel, maximizing space and strength with perfect symmetry.
Bees are also paragons of cleanliness and discipline. They designate separate areas for waste, remove dead bees promptly, and refuse entry to any bee contaminated by filth. If a bee becomes idle or a rival queen emerges, it is eliminated to preserve the hive’s harmony. This meticulous order is a reflection of divine precision, as emphasized in the tafsir of Surah An-Nahl.
“From their bellies comes a drink of varying colors…”
The color, taste, and medicinal properties of honey vary based on the flowers and fruits the bees consume, as well as the climate and region. This diversity is another sign of Allah’s creative power.
Therapeutic Benefits of Honey in Islamic Tradition
The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ emphasized the healing power of honey in numerous Hadiths. One of the most well-known narrations is:
“Healing is in three things: a drink of honey, cupping, and cauterization with fire, but I forbid my nation from cauterization.” (Sahih al-Bukhari 5681)
This Hadith highlights honey as a primary remedy in Prophetic medicine. It is not only a nutrient but also a detoxifier, especially effective in treating digestive issues, respiratory ailments, and skin conditions.
Honey in Hadith: A Prophetic Prescription for Digestive Health
Among the most compelling examples of honey’s medicinal use in Prophetic medicine is the well-documented incident involving a man who approached the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ about his brother’s stomach ailment. The Prophet ﷺ advised him to give his brother honey. The man returned multiple times, stating that the condition had not improved, but the Prophet ﷺ insisted:
“اسْقِهِ عَسَلًا” “Give him honey.”
On the fourth attempt, the man reported that his brother had finally recovered. The Prophet ﷺ responded:
“صَدَقَ اللَّهُ وَكَذَبَ بَطْنُ أَخِيكَ” “Allah has spoken the truth, and your brother’s stomach has lied.”
(Sahih al-Bukhari 5684, Sahih Muslim 7/26)
This narration is not only a testament to the efficacy of honey but also a profound lesson in dosage and persistence in treatment. Scholars like Ibn al-Qayyim and Al-Qastallani have emphasized that the correct quantity of medicine is crucial. If the dose is too small, it may not be effective; if too large, it may cause harm. Honey, when administered in the right amount, can cleanse the digestive tract, eliminate toxins, and restore balance.(End quote from Zaad al-Ma‘aad, 4/30, Al-Qastallani, 1996, 12: 414-415).
Detailed Interpretations of Hadith and Scholarly Commentary on Honey
Ibn al-Qayyim and the Science of Dosage
Ibn al-Qayyim in Zaad al-Ma‘aad explains that the Prophet ﷺ’s prescription of honey for stomach illness was not arbitrary. The patient’s condition was due to indigestion and accumulation of harmful substances in the stomach and intestines. Honey, being a natural cleanser, was prescribed to expel these impurities.
“فإن العسل فيه جلاء ودفع للفضول… وكان قد أصاب المعدة أخلاط لزجة…” (Zaad al-Ma‘aad, 3/97–98)
“Honey has a cleansing effect and removes excess matter. The stomach was affected by sticky substances that hindered digestion. Repeating the dose was necessary to match the severity of the illness.”
He emphasized that medicine must be administered in the right quantity. If the dose is too small, it won’t be effective; if too large, it may cause harm. The Prophet ﷺ’s repeated instruction to give honey was to ensure the correct therapeutic dose was reached.
Shaykh al-Albani’s Interpretation (رحمه الله)
Shaykh al-Albani authenticated the Hadith in which the Prophet ﷺ said:
“صَدَقَ اللَّهُ وَكَذَبَ بَطْنُ أَخِيكَ” “Allah has spoken the truth, and your brother’s stomach has lied.”
(Silsilat al-Ahadith al-Sahihah, no. 243)
He emphasized that this Hadith is a clear affirmation of the truthfulness of divine revelation. The Prophet ﷺ’s insistence on repeating the honey treatment shows that faith in the remedy, persistence, and trust in Allah’s wisdom are essential for healing. This Hadith also highlights that Prophetic medicine is not based on trial and error, but on certainty and divine guidance.
Hafiz Ibn Hajar al-Asqalani’s Interpretation (رحمه الله)
In Fath al-Bari (10/209), Hafiz Ibn Hajar explains that the initial dose of honey was insufficient to counter the illness. The Prophet ﷺ’s repeated instruction to administer honey was to reach the effective dosage. He writes:
“The first dose did not bring relief because it was less than what the illness required. If the dose had been too much, it could have caused harm. But when the correct amount was reached through repetition, the patient was cured by Allah’s will.”
This interpretation underscores the importance of dosage, timing, and patient condition in Prophetic medicine.
Al-Qastallani’s Commentary
Al-Qastallani (d. 923 AH) adds that the repeated use of honey was not arbitrary but based on a deep understanding of dosage and disease resistance. He writes:
“Considering the quantities of drugs, their methods, and the strength of the disease and the patient is one of the greatest principles of medicine.” (Al-Qastallani, 1996, 12:414–415)
This aligns with modern pharmacology, where dosage precision is critical to treatment success
🧪 By Dr. Khalid Ghaznavi:Honey and Gastrointestinal Health
Dr. Khalid Ghaznavi supports this Prophetic approach in his book Tibb-e-Nabawi aur Jadeed Science. He explains that diarrhea is often caused by inflammation in the intestines due to toxins or viruses. If intestinal movement is halted prematurely, toxins remain in the body. Honey, however, has the unique ability to cleanse the intestines while also fighting pathogens, making it a dual-action remedy
“شہد میں یہ صلاحیت تھی کہ وہ یہ دونوں کام کر سکتا تھا” (Tibb-e-Nabawi aur Jadeed Science, p. 171)
Honey not only cleanses the intestines but also neutralizes harmful bacteria, making it a dual-action remedy.
Homeopathy and Prophetic Medicine: A Shared Principle
Maulana Waheed uz Zaman draws a parallel between this Hadith and homeopathic principles. He explains that in homeopathy, treatment is often done using substances that mimic the symptoms (علاج بالموافق). For example, a laxative may be given to someone with diarrhea to expel toxins completely.
This contrasts with Unani and allopathic medicine, which often use opposite treatments (علاج بالضد). The Prophet ﷺ’s method aligns with the first approach, showing the depth of Prophetic medical wisdom.
Topical Use of Honey and Spiritual Healing
علامہ عینی narrates that Ibn Umar (RA) used to apply honey to skin boils while reciting:
فِيهِ شِفَاءٌ لِّلنَّاسِ “In it is healing for mankind.” (Surah An-Nahl) (‘Umdat al-Qari, 14/672)
This shows that honey was used not only for physical healing but also with spiritual intention, combining faith and medicine.
Honey as a Universal Remedy
Ibn al-Qayyim further elaborates in Zaad al-Ma‘aad that honey is effective in treating:
Flatulence and indigestion
Liver and kidney disorders
Heart conditions
Poisoning from substances like arsenic and mercury
Respiratory infections and fevers
Its versatility and natural origin make it a staple in both traditional Islamic medicine and modern holistic health practices.( Zaad al-Ma‘aad)
Not all honey is created equal. According to Ibn al-Qayyim, one of the most respected scholars of Islamic medicine, the best honey is:
“The purest, whitest, mildest, and sweetest. The honey taken from mountains has advantages over that from hives and depends on the bees’ pastures.” (Zaad al-Ma‘aad, 4/30)
This insight aligns with modern findings that the quality of honey is influenced by the botanical source, geographical location, and processing methods. Mountain honey, for instance, is often richer in minerals and antioxidants, making it more potent for therapeutic use.
Honey as a Sunnah Food
The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ not only recommended honey for healing but also personally enjoyed it:
عن عائشة رضي الله عنها، قالت: \”كان النبي صلى الله عليه وسلم يعجبه الحلواء والعسل\” “Aisha (RA) said: The Prophet ﷺ liked sweets and honey.” (Sahih al-Bukhari 5682)
This Hadith reflects the Prophet’s preference for natural, wholesome foods, and reinforces the idea that honey is both nutritious and spiritually significant. It is a Sunnah food, meaning its consumption is not only beneficial but also rewarding when done with the right intention.
Ethical Treatment of Bees in Islam
Islam also emphasizes the ethical treatment of animals, including bees. The Prophet ﷺ forbade the killing of certain creatures:
عن ابن عباس، قال: \”نهى رسول الله صلى الله عليه وسلم عن قتل أربعة من الدواب: النملة، والنحلة، والهدهد، والصرد\” “The Prophet ﷺ forbade the killing of four creatures: the ant, the bee, the hoopoe, and the shrike.” (Abu Dawood 5267, Ibn Majah 3224)
This Hadith highlights the sacred role of bees in the ecosystem and their value in human health and spirituality. Their protection is not only an environmental concern but also a religious duty.
Throughout Islamic history, honey has been a cornerstone of medical prescriptions. It was used to treat:
Eye infections (applied topically)
Respiratory issues
Joint pain and inflammation
Heart conditions
Skin wounds and burns
Even today, honey is found in modern natural remedies, and its antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties are widely recognized in scientific literature.
Conclusion: Honey as a Divine and Scientific Remedy
The journey through the Qur’anic verses, Hadith, and scientific research reveals a consistent truth: honey is both a sacred and scientifically validated remedy. Its mention in the Qur’an as a source of healing, its endorsement by the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, and its continued use in both traditional and modern medicine underscore its universal value.
فِيهِ شِفَاءٌ لِّلنَّاسِ “In it is healing for mankind.”
This divine statement is not just spiritual—it is medically profound. Honey’s ability to cleanse the digestive system, boost immunity, heal wounds, and nourish the body makes it a comprehensive treatment for a wide range of ailments.
Muslim scholars and physicians throughout history, such as Ibn al-Qayyim, Al-Razi, and Al-Maraghi, have written extensively on the therapeutic uses of honey. Their works laid the foundation for what we now recognize as integrative medicine, blending spiritual insight with empirical knowledge. Honey was used to treat:
Diarrhea and digestive disorders
Respiratory infections
Joint and muscle pain
Skin diseases and wounds
Heart and liver conditions
These treatments were not based on guesswork but on centuries of observation, clinical experience, and divine guidance.
Modern Science Confirms Ancient Wisdom
Contemporary research continues to validate what Islamic medicine has long known. Honey is now recognized for its:
Antibacterial and antifungal properties
Wound-healing capabilities
Antioxidant content
Role in gut health and immunity
Medical journals and clinical studies have confirmed that honey can be used as a natural alternative to synthetic drugs in many cases, especially for wound care, cough relief, and digestive health.
Final Thoughts: Embracing the Sunnah of Healing
In a world increasingly turning to natural and holistic remedies, honey stands out as a timeless cure. It is a Sunnah, a Qur’anic remedy, and a scientifically endorsed treatment. Whether consumed daily for wellness or used therapeutically for specific ailments, honey offers a divine balance of nutrition and medicine.
The Qur’anic verse in Surah An-Nahl (16:68-69) explicitly states that honey contains healing for mankind. The Hadith literature further supports this, with the Prophet ﷺ prescribing honey for stomach ailments and praising its taste and benefits.
Let us remember the words of the Prophet ﷺ and the wisdom of the Qur’an, and embrace honey not just as a food, but as a gift from Allah, full of healing, nourishment, and spiritual significance.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) – Islamic Perspective on Honey
1. Is honey mentioned in the Qur’an?
Yes. In Surah An-Nahl (16:68-69), Allah says:
فِيهِ شِفَاءٌ لِّلنَّاسِ “In it is healing for mankind.”
This verse highlights honey’s divine healing properties.
2. Did the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ use honey for treatment?
Yes. The Prophet ﷺ recommended honey for various ailments, especially digestive issues, and said:
“الشفاء في ثلاثة: شربة عسل…” “Healing is in three things: a drink of honey…” (Sahih al-Bukhari 5681)
3. Is honey considered a Sunnah food?
Absolutely. The Prophet ﷺ loved honey and sweet foods:
“كان النبي صلى الله عليه وسلم يعجبه الحلواء والعسل” “The Prophet ﷺ liked sweets and honey.” (Sahih al-Bukhari 5682)
4. Can honey be used for all types of illnesses?
While honey has broad healing properties, it may not cure every illness. The Qur’anic phrase uses نَكِرَة (indefinite) for “healing,” implying general benefit, not a universal cure. Its effectiveness depends on dosage, method of use, and individual condition, as explained by Ibn al-Qayyim and Al-Qastallani.
5. Is it permissible to kill bees in Islam?
No. The Prophet ﷺ forbade killing bees:
“نهى رسول الله صلى الله عليه وسلم عن قتل… النحلة” “The Prophet ﷺ forbade the killing of the bee…” (Abu Dawood 5267)
This reflects Islam’s emphasis on environmental ethics and the sacred role of bees.
6. Can honey be used for stomach problems in Islam?
Absolutely. A famous Hadith in Sahih al-Bukhari (5684) narrates how the Prophet ﷺ advised a man to give his brother honey for abdominal pain. After repeated use, the man’s brother was cured, and the Prophet ﷺ said:
“صَدَقَ اللَّهُ وَكَذَبَ بَطْنُ أَخِيكَ” “Allah has spoken the truth, and your brother’s stomach has lied.”
This Hadith is often cited as a proof of honey’s effectiveness in treating digestive issues.
7. What is the best type of honey according to Islamic scholars?
Ibn al-Qayyim stated that the best honey is:
“The purest, whitest, mildest, and sweetest. The honey taken from mountains has advantages over that from hives.”(Zaad al-Ma‘aad, 4/30)
This aligns with modern findings that raw, unpasteurized honey from natural sources is most beneficial [1].
8. Can honey be used for wounds and infections?
Yes. Honey has been used for thousands of years as a wound dressing. Modern science confirms that honey contains hydrogen peroxide and methylglyoxal, which help in healing wounds and fighting infections[2].
A writer and student of Islamic Studies, currently pursuing BS in Islamic Studies and studying Dars-e-Nizami. I have practical experience in the field of natural remedies, with a special focus on the traditional and medicinal benefits of honey.
Keywords: Is honey good or bad for you? Health Facts, honey health benefits, honey vs sugar, is honey healthy, raw honey benefits, honey and weight gain, honey for diabetes, is…
Does Honey Expire? Honey is one of the most fascinating natural sweeteners known to mankind — not only for its delicious flavor and health benefits but also for its incredible…
Honey for Health: Through the Ages Honey, often referred to as “liquid gold,” has been cherished for millennia not only as a natural sweetener but also as a potent therapeutic…
Honey: A Natural Treasure of Food and Medicine Discover the Health Benefits of Honey Have you ever wondered why honey has been cherished for centuries—not just as a sweetener but…
Keywords: Benefits of honey, uses of honey, medicinal honey, daily uses of honey, honey for health, healing properties of honey, honey in Islamic medicine, natural remedies with honey, ancient medicine…
One Comment
“A beautifully written post! Honey truly is a miracle of nature — its healing benefits in both Prophetic and modern medicine are deeply inspiring. JazakAllah for sharing such valuable knowledge!”
“A beautifully written post! Honey truly is a miracle of nature — its healing benefits in both Prophetic and modern medicine are deeply inspiring. JazakAllah for sharing such valuable knowledge!”