Beetroot in Tibb-e-Nabawi

A Prophetic Recommendation for Recovery & Strength

Beetroot holds a special place in Tibb-e-Nabawi due to its explicit mention in authentic Hadith as a food recommended during convalescence and weakness. The Prophet ﷺ highlighted beetroot as more suitable and beneficial than other foods for someone recovering from illness.

This guidance reflects the Prophetic principle of choosing foods according to the body’s condition, not mere preference.

Hadith on Beetroot

Umm al-Mundhir (رضي الله عنها) reported:

The Messenger of Allah ﷺ came to visit me accompanied by ‘Ali (رضي الله عنه) while we had ripening dates hanging. The Prophet ﷺ began to eat, and ‘Ali also ate with him. The Messenger of Allah ﷺ then said to ‘Ali: “Stop, ‘Ali, for you are convalescing.”

I then prepared beetroot and barley for them, and the Prophet ﷺ said:

“Take some of this, ‘Ali, for it will be more beneficial for you.”

(Mishkat al-Masabihl, 421)

Key Insight from the Hadith

• Beetroot with barley was recommended

• Shows dietary adjustment based on health condition

This is a clear medical wisdom embedded in Sunnah.

Why Beetroot Was Recommended During Recovery

From the hadith and Unani understanding, beetroot is:

• Nourishing but not overstimulating

• Strengthening without heaviness

• Supportive of blood and recovery

• Suitable for weakened digestion

This aligns perfectly with Prophetic healing principles.

Temperament of Beetroot

According to Unani medicine:

• Temperament: Cold & Moist

• Effect: Blood-nourishing, strengthening, soothing

• Best for: Weakness, recovery, dryness, fatigue

This explains why it was preferred over dates, which are hot and energizing, and may burden a weak body.

Health Benefits of Beetroot

🩸 1. Supports Recovery & Strength

Beetroot:

• Nourishes weakened bodies

• Restores strength after illness

• Supports gradual recovery

Exactly as indicated in the hadith.

🍽️ 2. Gentle on a Weak Digestive System

When cooked, beetroot:

• Is easy to digest

• Does not overload the stomach

• Provides nourishment without irritation

Ideal for convalescents.

💪 3. Builds Blood & Vitality

Traditional scholars noted beetroot’s role in:

• Supporting healthy blood

• Improving energy

• Reviving physical strength

🧠 4. Supports Calmness & Balance

Its moist nature helps:

• Reduce dryness-related fatigue

• Support mental calm

• Restore bodily balance

Best Way to Consume Beetroot

✔ Prefer boiled or cooked beetroot
✔ Combine with barley (as mentioned in the hadith)
✔ Eat in moderate portions
✔ Avoid raw beetroot during illness
✔ Suitable during recovery, not excess strength

This mirrors Prophetic dietary precision.

Who Should Be Careful

Limit beetroot if:

• You have excess phlegm

• You feel heaviness after eating it

• You have very cold temperament

As always, moderation is Sunnah.

Tibb-e-Nabawi Reflection

This hadith teaches us that:

• Healing is not one-food-fits-all

• Even halal foods may be unsuitable during illness

• True medicine considers timing, condition, and balance

The Prophet ﷺ practiced personalized nutrition, centuries before modern dietetics.

Conclusion

Beetroot is a Sunnah-endorsed recovery food, explicitly recommended by the Prophet ﷺ for a person regaining health. Its gentle, nourishing nature makes it ideal for weakness, convalescence, and restoring strength. When prepared correctly and eaten with moderation, beetroot beautifully reflects the mercy, balance, and wisdom of Tibb-e-Nabawi.