Ibn al-Qayyim’s Insights on Quince (Safarjal): A Fruit for Digestive and Heart Health
The Benefits of Quince (Safarjal) in Islam: A Fruit for Strengthening the Stomach and Heart
In the rich tradition of Islamic medicine, many fruits and foods are recommended for their therapeutic properties, not only for maintaining physical health but also for nurturing the soul. Among these fruits, the quince (known as Safarjal in Arabic) stands out as a remarkable gift from Allah, praised by Islamic scholars and healthcare practitioners, including the renowned Ibn al-Qayyim (rahimahullah). Quince is often overlooked in the modern world, but its benefits, both in physical and spiritual health, are profound and deserving of attention.
What is Quince?
Quince is a fruit that closely resembles the apple and pear family but differs significantly in texture and flavor. It is native to the warm-temperate areas of southwest Asia, including the Caucasus region. Quince fruits are typically harder than apples and pears, and even when fully ripe, they are not eaten raw due to their tough texture and astringent taste. Instead, quinces are usually consumed cooked, either as preserves, jams, or incorporated into pies and desserts. They have a sweet and fragrant aroma, which makes them highly desirable once prepared properly. The quince season generally begins in September and lasts through the cooler months.
Ibn al-Qayyim’s Praise for Quince in Islamic Medicine
Ibn al-Qayyim, in his seminal work At-Tibb an-Nabawi (The Prophetic Medicine), mentioned quince as a beneficial fruit, especially for the stomach and the heart. His insights are grounded in Islamic principles of health, which view food not only as nourishment but as a form of medicine that can maintain balance in the body and protect against illness.
Ibn al-Qayyim (rahimahullah) categorized the nature of quince as “cold and dry,” a characteristic that is key to understanding its effects on the body. In his writings, he described quince as having numerous therapeutic benefits. He states that quince is effective in quenching thirst, stopping vomiting, reducing nausea, and aiding digestion. In particular, he highlighted its ability to treat stomach ulcers and its beneficial effects on the digestive system.
The Healing Powers of Quince: Benefits for the Stomach and Heart
- Strengthening the Stomach
Ibn al-Qayyim observed that quince can have a positive effect on the stomach, especially when consumed after meals. When eaten after food, quince is said to soften the stomach, acting as a drying agent. This helps in controlling the excess yellow bile and preventing the build-up of vapors that can rise from the stomach to the chest or brain. Quince’s astringent properties also make it an excellent food for strengthening and soothing the digestive system.
One of its most notable qualities is its ability to help treat stomach ulcers. Ulcers often arise from the excess acidity or irritation within the stomach lining, and quince’s cooling and drying effects provide relief from such conditions. It can thus be a natural remedy for people suffering from digestive disorders or gastrointestinal discomfort.
- Benefit for the Heart
In addition to its positive impact on the stomach, Ibn al-Qayyim also highlighted the benefits of quince for the heart. Quince preserves made with honey, in particular, are said to act as a tonic and relaxant for the heart. The combination of quince and honey opens blood passages, alleviates tightness in the chest, and strengthens the stomach and liver. This healing effect on the heart is especially important for individuals who suffer from heart-related ailments or emotional distress, as it promotes a sense of relaxation and comfort.
The concept of food as a means of spiritual and physical healing aligns with the Islamic perspective that balance in the body directly impacts balance in the soul. The soothing and strengthening effects of quince on the heart can be understood not only as a remedy for physical conditions but also as a way to calm the emotional state, helping individuals maintain a sense of tranquility and reliance on Allah.
The Best Ways to Consume Quince
Ibn al-Qayyim (rahimahullah) recommended that quince be consumed in its cooked form to maximize its benefits. He mentioned that the fruit should ideally be broiled or cooked with honey, which helps neutralize the coldness of the quince with the warmth of the honey. This combination ensures that the two foods complement each other, balancing their respective properties.
Quince Preserve with Honey: A Therapeutic Delight
One of the most common ways to consume quince is by making quince preserve or jam, often combined with honey. This preserve serves not only as a delicious treat but as a healthful remedy for the body. The quince preserve made with honey is considered a tonic for the heart, opening up blood passages and helping to alleviate any tightness or distress in the chest. It also strengthens the stomach and liver, ensuring the body functions optimally.
The benefit of honey in this preserve cannot be overstated. Honey is known in both the Quran and Hadith to have remarkable healing properties. In Surah An-Nahl (16:69), Allah says:
“Then eat from all the fruits and follow the ways of your Lord laid down for you. There emerges from their bellies a drink, varying in colors, in which there is healing for people. Indeed in that is a sign for a people who give thought.”
(Quran, 16:69)
The combination of quince and honey harmonizes well, with honey’s natural sweetness counterbalancing the quince’s slight coldness. This equilibrium ensures that the preserve is both enjoyable and beneficial, with no harm caused by the coldness of the quince. When consumed regularly, especially in the morning, it can be a beneficial food for individuals suffering from heart conditions, digestive issues, or those seeking overall health improvement.
A Nourishing Breakfast: Quince Preserve, Talbinah, and Honey
A spoonful of quince preserve, paired with a bowl of freshly made Talbinah and a touch of honey, can be a powerful and nutritious breakfast. Talbinah, a dish made from barley flour, is praised in the Sunnah for its many health benefits, especially in providing nourishment for the body and soothing the soul. This meal, taken daily, can help strengthen the stomach and heart, providing both physical and spiritual nourishment. It is particularly beneficial for heart patients, offering a soothing effect that helps alleviate stress and anxiety while promoting digestive health.
Islamic Perspective on Eating for Health and Healing
The teachings of the Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him) emphasize the importance of eating with intention and understanding the medicinal properties of food. The Prophet (peace be upon him) said:
“There is no disease that Allah has created, except that He has also created its treatment.”
(Sahih Bukhari)
This profound Hadith reminds us that everything we need for our health is already provided by Allah, either in natural remedies or in the form of guidance through the Prophet’s teachings. By following these guidelines and consuming food like quince, which has both physical and spiritual benefits, Muslims can maintain their health and well-being in a holistic manner that aligns with Islamic principles.
Conclusion: A Divine Gift for Health and Healing
Quince is more than just a fruit; it is a divine gift, rich with healing properties that align with the holistic approach to health found in Islam. By consuming quince in its various forms—whether as a preserve with honey or simply broiled—Muslims can benefit from its soothing effects on the stomach and heart. It serves as a reminder that in every blessing Allah has provided, there is wisdom and healing, and by adhering to the guidance of Islamic teachings on food and medicine, believers can lead healthier, more balanced lives. May Allah grant us understanding and the ability to benefit from the foods He has blessed us with, for both our physical and spiritual well-being. Ameen.