“Sidr” Zizyphus
A perennial tree belonging to the family Rhamnaceae. There are approximately 40 species of Zizyphus. It is widespread in hot and temperate regions across many parts of the world, especially in Asia. Some species are deciduous, while others are evergreen. Flowers are small, crowned, and yellowish-green. Traditionally known by various arabic names, including “Ad-Dome”, “‘Ilb”, “Nabq”, and “‘Innab”.
In Arab and Muslim culture, “Sidr” tree holds a special significance as it is mentioned in the Holy Quran as one of the trees of paradise. In the Quran, it is mentioned in Surah Al-Waqi’ah (Chapter 56), {27. And those on the Right Hand how (fortunate) will be those on the Right Hand? 28. (They will be) among thornless lote-trees}
Sidr tree is also mentioned in Surah An-Najm (Chapter 53), {14. Near Sidrat-ul-Muntaha (a lote-tree of the utmost boundary over the seventh heaven beyond which none can pass) 15. Near it is the Paradise of Abode 16. When that covered the lote-tree which did cover it}
In Surah Saba’ (Chapter 34), Sidr tree mentioned as well, {15. Indeed, there was for Saba’ (Sheba) a sign in their dwelling-place, two gardens on the right hand and on the left; (and it was said to them:) “Eat of the provision of your Lord, and be grateful to Him.” A fair land and an Oft-Forgiving Lord! 16. But they turned away (from the obedience of Allah), so We sent against them Sail Al- ‘Arim (flood released from the dam). And We converted their two gardens into gardens producing bitter bad fruit, and tamarisks, and some few lote-trees}. Since the best of these trees to be replaced with is Sidr, Allah said: {some few lote-trees}, it means that if Sidr trees had been a lot, it would have been a blessing, but God punished them because of their turning away, so He made Sidr trees a little.
It is also mentioned in authentic Hadiths (sayings of the Prophet Muhammad, peace be upon him). He said: “Whoever cuts a lote-tree, Allah will divert his head in the Fire.” (Reported by Abu Dawood and authenticated by Al-Albani). Abu Dawood was asked about the meaning of this hadith, and he replied that it means cutting a lote-tree without a valid reason, in a place where travelers or animals take shade. This hadith indicates the special status of “Sidr” tree. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) also mentioned using Sidr leaves when washing the deceased.
Ancient Arab physicians used different parts of Sidr tree to treat various diseases. Sidr leaves were known to treat those affected by black magic, as described by Wahb ibn Munabbih. “Seven Sidr leaves would be pounded between two stones, mixed with water, and recited over with Ayat al-Kursi. The affected person would drink this mixture, and then bathe with the rest of it to relieve their condition”.
Ancient Arab physicians also harnessed the therapeutic properties of the “Nabq” which is the fruit of the “Sidr” tree Zizyphus Spina-Christi, to address a range of health concerns, such as bilious temperaments (choleric disposition), liver ailments, stomach ulcers, respiratory disorders, and even the treatment of tumors. They also mentioned that showering with Sidr leaves cleanses the scalp, and helps alleviate fever.
Among China, Jujube fruit “‘Innab”, a type of Sidr, known as (Chinese Date), considered a principal treatment in traditional Chinese medicine for liver detoxification and kidney function stimulation.
Additionally, in some cultures, especially among women, ground Sidr leaves are still used as a body mask when mixed with Henna or Turmeric. This mixture is believed to cleanse and purify the body, improve skin tone, and tightens the skin. This process gives best results on women with light brown skin.Top of Form
As for Sidr honey, it is one of the finest and most expensive types of honey. Its color ranges from golden amber to dark amber.
The most famous species of Sidr trees from which honey is produced are:
- Zizyphus Jujube Lam, “Jujube or, Jujuba” one of the most famous honey-producing species, known in arabic as “Al-‘Innab”. A thorny tree that can reach a height of up to 10 meters. It is widespread in China, and its fruit known as (Chinese Date). It is also widespread in Mediterranean region, Southeast Asia, Pakistan, India, and in all Yemeni regions. Jujube tree can tolerate various climates, but require a hot and rainfall summer to bear fruits. It can withstand temperatures as low as -15 degrees Celsius, and not affected by high temperatures no matter how high they rise.
- Zizyphus spina-christi (Christ Thorn), “Wild Sidr”, a thorny tree or shrub, grows in valleys and wild highlands, and its height ranges between 3 to 6 meters. It is commonly known as “Montane Sidr”, “Stray Sidr”, and “Arabian Sidr”. Its fruit commonly called in Arabic “Ad-Dome” or “Nabq”. It is widespread in the Arabian Peninsula countries, India, Iraq, Somalia, Ethiopia, Pakistan, South China, and Sri Lanka. However, the oldest and most widespread variety of the Wild Sidr tree is found in Yemen, where the Quranic verse about the Kingdom of Sheba (Saba) was revealed. According to the narratives, it is said that the Jews used branches of this thorny tree to make the crown they placed on the head of Jesus Christ during crucifixion. Hence, the scientific name of this type “Spina-christi” or “Christ Thorn.”
“Wild Sidr” is at the forefront in terms of the quality and quantity of the honey that is produced from it.
- Zizyphus nummularia, “Orchardy Sidr”, a deciduous shrub with thorny branches. It grows up to a height of 2 to 3 meters. Can be found in the wild as well as in agricultural fields. Its widespread in Yemen, Egypt, Iraq, Oman, Kuwait, India, Pakistan (Kashmir region), and others. Its fruit commonly called in Arabic “Ad-dome” or “Nabq”. Its flowering season is during Monsoon rains, from July to September. The nectar of Zizyphus nummularia is the primary source of Kashmiri Sidr honey. The leaves of this tree are used in Ayurvedic medicine. In appearance, it closely resembles the “Wild Sidr” tree.
- Zizyphus Lotus, also known as Lotus Jujube or European Jujube, or even “African jujube”, is a deciduous shrub or small tree with thorny branches. It typically grows to a height of 2 to 5 meters. Its native range includes Mediterranean region, especially Morocco, Tunisia, Lebanon, and Italy. It bears pale yellow to greenish flowers, and in rare cases, bright yellow flowers. The flowering season extends from spring to summer. It is most closely related to the Zizyphus jujube. It grows in the Atlas Mountains in Morocco and is also found in some regions of Saudi Arabia and Yemen.
Sidr honey benefits
Dr. Ibrahim Al-Arifi conducted a PHD study titled “Chemical Properties of Bee Products and Their Impact on Diabetic Patients.” The study has been proven beyond doubt that a tablespoon of Zizyphus jujube honey on an empty stomach is suitable for diabetics, it stimulates insulin and improves cell receptors. Through experiments with thousands of patients, this has been proven in his clinic for more than 20 years. Although diabetics should beware of consuming honey in large quantities because of its effect on sugar level in the blood. He also mentioned several benefits of Jujube honey, such as: treating anemia, stimulates sexual vitality, and it is given to pregnant women in their last month to facilitate labor. Jujube honey also treats Urinary incontinence, vaginal infections, and is a complementary treatment for viral kidney, liver and spleen diseases. Furthermore, it stimulates the work of the pancreas, and increases fertility in men and women.
Another study conducted by Dr. Ahmed Al-Ghamdi and his colleagues, demonstrated the effectiveness of Wild Sidr honey, Zizyphus spina-christi against Candida albicans fungi. Specifically, the study showed that Wild Sidr honey can eliminate these tenacious fungi, and inhibit the formation of biofilms resistant to antifungal agents.
The research team selected Wild Sidr honey (Zizyphus spina-christi) for this study because it is commonly used as a folk medicine to treat several infections and diseases in the Arabian Peninsula. Although some honeys from different plant sources and geographical origins were found to be effective against C. albicans, but Wild Sidr honey demonstrated the most effective.
However, the research team acknowledged that the mechanism of the antifungal effect of honey is not fully understood.
Thus, these studies and others, confirm the general belief in the unique and distinctive properties of Wild Sidr honey compared to other types of honey.
So, what is Candida albicans? And why did doctors turn to honey to treat diseases caused by it?
Candida albicans is a type of fungus that is commonly present as part of the normal microbial composition in the human body. It is the most common yeast found in the mucous membranes of humans, including in the mouth, esophagus, digestive tract, urinary bladder, and genital organs.
C. albicans typically exist in the body without causing harm, but when the immune system is weakened or there is an imbalance in the body’s microbial environment, it can overgrow and lead to various types of infections known as Candida infections. These infections can affect different parts of the body, including the mouth (oral thrush), the genital area (vaginal yeast infections in women and balanitis in men), skin, nails, and, in severe cases, even the bloodstream. It is considered one of the major fungal pathogens in humans capable of causing superficial mucous membrane infections and respiratory tract infections.
C. albicans is known as a tenacious fungus, meaning it can resist antibiotics and antifungal agents. It has not been discovered a single drug that is 100% effective against this type of yeast. Mature C. albicans biofilms are very difficult to eradicate and are recalcitrant to antifungals, like azole medications.
C. albicans has become one of the main causes of morbidity and mortality worldwide among immunocompromised individual. It has been shown to be the third most commonly isolated blood pathogen from patients in U.S. hospitals.
The increased resistance of this resilient fungus to azole drugs and the limited availability of effective medications have led to the search for new therapeutic alternatives like honey, which contains a wide range of antifungal properties.
In summary, Candida albicans is a common fungus found in the human body but can cause infections when conditions are favorable for its overgrowth. Due to its resistance to certain medications, researchers are exploring new treatment options like Sidr honey, which has shown a potential treatment in its antifungal properties.