Page 59 - EJMO-9-1

Eurasian Journal of Medicine and
Oncology
Integrative prophetic medicine

been linked to the prevention of various health issues, Moreover, another clinical study revealed that miswak use
including cardiovascular disease, Type 2 diabetes, and among school children significantly reduced plaque levels
obesity. 86,87 and shifted the bacterial balance in their saliva toward
Clinical studies have shown that diets rich in barley species less likely to cause cavities. 97
β-glucan can lower blood sugar spikes (glycemic index) 4.2. Spiritual and religious therapy
and insulin response (insulinemic response). This effect
is likely due to the ability of β-glucan to form a thick Spiritual therapy is a therapeutic modality that integrates
gel in the gut, which slows starch digestion by enzymes, conventional counseling techniques with religious and
such as α-amylase. Notably, the amount and structure of spiritual frameworks to enhance both mental and physical
the β-glucan that dissolves in the gut appear to correlate well-being. This approach emphasizes cultivating inner
with its health benefits, including cholesterol reduction strength by incorporating religious beliefs, practices,
and blood sugar regulation. Research on diabetic rats even and values. The primary objective of spiritual therapy
suggested that barley consumption may improve liver is to leverage these modalities to facilitate healing from
health. 88,89 various ailments. A growing body of empirical evidence
underscores the multifaceted benefits of these therapies for
4.1.7. Miswak (Salvadora persica) patients. Their widespread use and recognition as crucial
The mustard tree, also known as the toothbrush tree contributors to overall well-being further solidify their
98,99
or miswak, is a fragrant plant with a warm and pungent significance. Notably, spiritual healing practices, such as
taste. Its branches have been traditionally used as a collective prayer, are more popular than other alternative
100,101
natural toothbrush for centuries, especially in the Arabian therapeutic approaches. The judicious integration
Peninsula and Muslim communities. 90,91 Chemical analysis of religious beliefs and practices within a therapeutic
revealed that miswak contains a variety of beneficial framework can yield effective outcomes in addressing a
compounds, including salvadorine and salvadourea spectrum of mental health challenges and certain physical
102-104
(thought to possess antibacterial properties), terpenes conditions.
(known for their fragrance and potential health benefits), An investigation into traditional household remedies
fluoride and silica (essential for strong teeth), Vitamin within specific communities demonstrated a prevalent
C and other compounds. Miswak also contains small use of practices rooted in Islamic PM. These practices
amounts of tannins, saponins, flavonoids, and sterols, encompass a diverse range of modalities, including Quranic
which may contribute to its overall effects. 92,93 recitation, supplication, and the usage of natural products,
105
Studies suggest that miswak extracts may offer a range such as honey and black seed. Furthermore, traditional
of health benefits. These extracts have been shown to practices, such as cupping and fasting, were frequently
fight various bacteria, including those that cause cavities reported. Some of these remedies, such as fasting and using
(Streptococcus mutans). In addition, they may exhibit certain natural ingredients, transcend religious boundaries
94
antitumor, anti-inflammatory, and wound-healing and are employed by individuals across various faith
properties. Research suggests that miswak extracts are traditions. For example, fasting is a significant cultural and
11
effective in improving oral health by reducing dental plaque spiritual tradition in many societies worldwide.
and biofilm buildup, which can lead to gum problems. Scholarly investigations in both clinical and academic
95
There is also emerging evidence that miswak extracts settings have examined the potential of religious practices
may assist individuals in managing blood sugar levels. within the Muslim faith to positively influence individual
Studies on diabetic rats showed that a hydroalcoholic health and well-being. Research findings indicate
106
extract significantly lowered blood sugar levels in a dose- that Islamic rituals, including prayer, “Dhikr” (the
dependent manner. 96 remembrance of Allah), recitation of the Quran, and other
Growing evidence suggests that miswak sticks provide acts of devotion, may contribute to relaxation and stress
more than just mechanical cleaning of teeth. Recent clinical reduction, thereby fostering long-term health advantages.
studies suggest that the natural chemicals released by These practices can be viewed as forms of self-care, offering
chewing miswak possess antibacterial properties that help readily accessible methods for promoting mental focus and
8
fight plaque buildup. This finding highlights the potential attaining inner peace.
role of miswak in improving gum health for patients with PM presents a comprehensive framework for cultivating
96
gingivitis. Another clinical trial showed that using both a mental well-being. By acknowledging the mind’s pivotal role
toothbrush and miswak resulted in significantly better oral in triggering stress and emotional disturbances, PM addresses
health outcomes compared to using a toothbrush alone. the root causes of these issues. A core tenet of PM emphasizes

Volume 9 Issue 1 (2025) 51 doi: 10.36922/ejmo.6765