It is narrated by A’ishah who stated, “I applied sweet flag/calamus upon the Messenger of Allah ﷺ with my hand during the Farewell Hajj at the time of leaving and entering into the state of Ihram.”
(Al Bukhari)
The word Zarirah is used in the Hadith which is explained in the commentaries of Hadith to mean a combination of perfumes and also a name for a specific type of fragrance that was well known in the land of Hijaz and other places. Al Imam An Nawawi and other scholars stated that it is a type of fragrant stick that is found in India. Based upon this it is understood to refer to sweet flag.
(Based upon Fath ul Bari and other commentaries upon Al Bukhari)
Sweet flag or acorus calamus is a perennial herb that has wonderful medicinal values. It is used in all medicinal systems of India. It is an important ingredient of most of the Ayurvedic medicines. It is stated in many of the great Greek classic literature on medicine. Hippocrates, who is called Father of medical science, and Greek physicians like Theophrastus and Dioscorides have mentioned about the uses of sweet flag. Here are some of the benefits of using this herb:
Stomach disorders
Sweet flag gives instant relief in stomach problems. It clears a swollen and uncomfortable stomach and also relieves headache related with weak digestion. It clears flatulence and colic and increases appetite. Sweet flag root is burnt and ground as a paste in coconut oil and is applied on belly in cases of pain. It has been found useful in treating anorexia, gastritis and gastric ulcers.
Stimulate the Blood Circulation
Calamus root helps to stimulate the blood circulation. Hot effect created by the oil at siri of calamus root is able to smooth the blood circulation and nerves. It is useful for you if you have a pain and swelling which is related with rheumatism, arthritis, and gout.
Lungs
It is effective against asthma and chronic bronchitis. It is recommended to take two glasses of calamus tea, which leads to vomiting. The herb is a broncho-dilator and acts as a chest decongestant. This formulation clears the passage by expelling out impurities from the stomach and lungs and with the result, the patients feel comfortable and easy.
Arthritus
Small piece of sweet flag is ground as paste and somewhat heated. Then this warm paste is applied externally on the painful areas. It relieves pain in cases of joint pain, arthritis and even piles.
If you would like to do further reading on other ingredients which are classed as Sunnah, have a look at Pumpkins also. Our sister website is Halal or Haram so do have a read on what is suitable for your dietry requirements.
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