Butter is one of the oldest natural fats known to humankind. In Tibb-e-Nabawi and classical Islamic medicine, natural fats were never viewed as harmful by default; rather, they were considered sources of strength and nourishment when consumed pure, natural, and in moderation.
Butter, especially when derived from pure cow or goat milk, was commonly used in traditional Muslim diets and medical practices to support physical strength, recovery, and internal lubrication.
Butter in Islamic & Classical Medical Tradition
Classical Muslim physicians such as Ibn Sina (Avicenna) and later scholars discussed butter and clarified butter (ghee) as:
Strength-giving foods
Beneficial for dryness and weakness
Helpful for people with hard labor or physical exhaustion
In Prophetic-era diets, simple dairy fats like butter and ghee were known and used, but not consumed excessively, reflecting the Sunnah principle of moderation.
Temperament (Mizaj) of Butter
According to Unani medicine:
Temperament: Warm & Moist
Best suited for: Cold or dry temperaments
Caution for: Excess heat, obesity, or weak digestion
This temperament explains why butter is nourishing yet heavy if misused.
Health Benefits of Butter
š§ 1. Strengthens the Body
Butter provides:
Concentrated energy
Healthy natural fats
Support for muscle strength
It is traditionally recommended for people with weakness, fatigue, or physical exertion.
š§ 2. Nourishes the Brain & Nerves
Natural fats are essential for:
Brain nourishment
Nerve function
Mental stamina
Classical medicine considered butter helpful for mental fatigue and dryness of the nerves.
š½ļø 3. Improves Digestion (When Used Correctly)
In small quantities, butter:
Softens the stomach
Helps food move smoothly through the digestive tract
Reduces excessive dryness
However, excess butter can slow digestion, so balance is essential.
š¦“ 4. Supports Growth & Recovery
Butter was traditionally given to:
Children (in small amounts)
People recovering from illness
Those suffering from dryness or weakness
It provides nourishment without sharp stimulation.
Best Way to Consume Butter
ā Use pure, natural butter
ā Prefer small quantities
ā Combine with simple foods (bread, grains, vegetables)
ā Avoid excess, especially at night
ā Do not mix heavily with fried or junk foods
Islamic medicine always teaches: benefit lies in moderation, harm lies in excess.
Butter vs Clarified Butter (Ghee)
Butter: Heavier, more moist
Ghee: Lighter on digestion, longer shelf life
Classical scholars often preferred ghee over butter for regular use, while butter was used occasionally.
Who Should Be Careful?
Butter should be limited by:
People with weak digestion
Those prone to obesity
Individuals with excess heat or phlegm
Each body is different ā Tibb-e-Nabawi always considers individual condition.
Spiritual & Lifestyle Reflection
Butter reminds us of an important Sunnah lesson:
Even beneficial foods can become harmful without moderation.
Islam teaches balance in eating, gratitude in consumption, and mindfulness in lifestyle.
Conclusion
Butter is a natural, nourishing fat with a respected place in traditional Islamic and Unani medicine. When consumed purely, occasionally, and in moderation, it supports strength, recovery, and nourishment. When abused, it burdens the body ā once again highlighting the perfection of Sunnah balance.