Taking prophetic or non prophetic medicines

Q: Should we only rely on spritual medicines like zam zam, honey, etc. and not take medicines? I don't know why I think due to my weak faith that what happened if I don't get shifa and I only think of using medical medicines. Am I committing kufr?

I heard the Prophet (sallallahu alaihi wasallam) used both. Did he always use then in a combined form of both spiritual and physical medicines?

A: Both forms of treatment are permissible (i.e. taking prophetic medicines as well as non prophetic medicines as long as the non prophetic medicines are halaal).

It should be borne in mind that prophetic medicines or treatments (e.g. honey, blackseed, cupping, etc.) have specific benefits as reported in the Hadith. However, the Ulama explain that in order for one to acquire the full benefit or for the treatment to prove effective in bringing the desired results, it should be administered or carried out under the guidance and supervision of someone who is qualified in the field of medicine.

At times, one does not find relief on account of not taking the medicine in the correct dosage or the treatment not conforming to the correct procedures.

Overall, all medication, whether prophetic medication or other medication that is not prescribed in the hadith, should be carried out under the supervision and guidance of a doctor or someone who is qualified in the various fields of medicine (e.g. a hakeem).

And Allah Ta'ala (الله تعالى) knows best.

 

Answered by:

Mufti Zakaria Makada

Checked & Approved:

Mufti Ebrahim Salejee (Isipingo Beach)