Anbar (Ambergris) in Tibb-e-Nabawi

A Rare Marine Gift Used for Fragrance, Strength & Refinement

Anbar (Ambergris) is a rare, natural substance formed in the sea and traditionally used for perfume, medicine, and refinement. It has been known, used, and explicitly mentioned in authentic Hadith, making it a legitimate and important subject within Tibb-e-Nabawi (Prophetic Medicine).

Ambergris has a unique, deep aroma and was historically valued more than gold due to its rarity and long-lasting fragrance.

Anbar in the Sunnah

Ambergris is directly mentioned in Sahih Hadith, removing any doubt about its permissibility and recognition.

It is narrated by Jabir ibn ‘Abdullah (رضي الله عنه):

“The Messenger of Allah ﷺ sent us on an expedition… We found a large fish (from the sea), and we ate from it for half a month. Abu ‘Ubaidah brought some of its fat (Anbar) to the Messenger of Allah ﷺ, and he ate from it.”
( Riyad as-Salihin, 517)

Scholars explain that Anbar here refers to ambergris or a substance from the sea used and valued by the Arabs.

This Hadith proves:

• Ambergris is halal

• It was known and accepted by the Prophet ﷺ

• Marine substances are lawful and blessed

Anbar as a Fragrance in Islamic Tradition

Ambergris was later widely used as:

• A base note in perfumes

• A fixative that makes fragrance last longer

• A symbol of refinement and nobility

Muslim scholars, rulers, and perfumers valued ambergris for its warm, smooth, animalic-sweet aroma that deepens other fragrances like musk and oud.

Nature & Temperament of Ambergris

According to Unani and classical Islamic medicine:

• Temperament: Warm & Dry

• Effect: Strengthening, uplifting, grounding

• Best for: Cold temperament, weakness of heart, mental fatigue

Because of its potency, ambergris is used in very small amounts.

Benefits of Anbar

🌿 1. Strengthens the Heart

Classical physicians described ambergris as:

• Heart-strengthening

• Helpful for emotional weakness

• Supportive in sadness and fear

It was often used in medicines for palpitations and weakness.

🧠 2. Enhances Mental Presence

Ambergris fragrance:

• Improves alertness

• Reduces mental dullness

• Promotes calm focus

This made it popular among scholars and leaders.

🌸 3. Elevates Fragrance & Refinement

Ambergris:

• Deepens and softens perfumes

• Makes scents long-lasting

• Adds warmth and dignity

It is not loud or sharp, but subtle and noble.

Use of Ambergris in Sunnah-Aligned Fragrance

✔ Used in very small quantity
✔ Best blended with musk or oud
✔ Preferred as alcohol-free itr
✔ Suitable before gatherings and prayer

Moderation is essential—a trace is enough.

Halal Status of Ambergris

Based on:

• Authentic Hadith

• Scholarly consensus

• Its marine origin

Ambergris is considered halal and permissible, even though it originates from whales, because it is not flesh nor blood, and is expelled naturally.

Spiritual Reflection

Ambergris teaches us that:

• Allah places value in the unseen and rare

• The sea contains blessings beyond food

• Refinement and beauty are part of faith

Even fragrance can be a means of gratitude and Sunnah revival.

Conclusion

Anbar (Ambergris) is a rare marine blessing, explicitly mentioned in authentic Hadith and respected in Tibb-e-Nabawi. Used primarily as a fragrance, it strengthens the heart, uplifts the spirit, and adds depth and nobility to perfume. When used lightly and naturally, ambergris reflects the Prophetic balance of beauty, purity, and moderation.