Do Muslims Respect Ayurvedic Medicine?

Assalamu Alaikum, A true Muslim,much like any human being, is guided to respect the good, honor righteousness, and renounce injustice or deceit. The Quran, the holy book of Islam, explains what God values and commands Muslims to respect diverse views while refraining from the mockery of what others hold sacred. The noble verse of Quran, chapter 6:108, instructs Muslims to maintain respect for differences in worship and belief.

Integrating Science with Faith

Medicine, a branch of science, is a humanitarian effort demanding respect and recognition, transcending religious boundaries. It is a field for all humanity to embrace and support, rather than attributing it to a specific religion. Himalaya, one of the most renowned Ayurvedic medicine companies in India, is managed by a Muslim individual. It is a misconception to associate any scientific development with a particular religion, just as homeopathy is not deemed Christian merely because it was developed by Christian practitioners.

In the medieval era, Muslim scholars played a pivotal role in developing Unani medicine, a traditional system based on herbal remedies and influenced by Greek knowledge. Unani medicine is often studied and taught primarily in Urdu in India, yet it is not considered a religious medicine. Similarly, Ayurveda, a system of traditional medicine in India, is not exclusive to Hindus, as it was developed by Hindu scholars.

Practicing and Respecting Different Medicinal Systems

Muslims often find a compatibility between their faith and various medicinal traditions. For instance, Unani medicine, another traditional science based on nature and the principles of the human body, is rooted in Islamic civilization and has been practiced and respected by Muslims for centuries. Additionally, in South India, members of my family practice Siddhi medicine, another form of traditional medicine whose principles are similar to Ayurveda. This underscores the flexibility within the Muslim community to integrate and respect different systems of medicine that are in harmony with their spiritual and cultural beliefs.

It is a fact that Muslims selectively adopt practices that suit their holistic health and wellbeing. This approach, adhering to what is beneficial and leaving what is detrimental, is a principle deeply rooted in Islam. Hence, Ayurvedic medicine, with its numerous benefits for health and wellness, is often welcomed and respected within the Muslim community.

Let all praises be for Allah, the Lord of the worlds. May Allah’s blessings guide us on the righteous path, increase our faith and patience. We pray for the unity of the ummah. Ameen.