Olive Oil in Islamic Healing Practices

Dec 9, 2025

Olive oil holds a special place in Islamic healing, combining spiritual teachings with health benefits. The Quran refers to the olive tree as "a blessed tree", symbolizing purity and divine guidance, while Prophet Muhammad ﷺ encouraged its use for consumption and topical application. Modern science supports these traditions, highlighting olive oil’s role in improving heart health, reducing inflammation, and promoting overall wellness.

Key points:

Prophetic Teachings: Olive oil is recommended in Hadith for eating and massage.
Quranic Significance: Mentioned in Surah An-Nur (24:35) and Surah At-Tin (95:1) as a symbol of blessings and enlightenment.
Health Benefits: Rich in monounsaturated fats and polyphenols, aiding heart health and skin protection.
Spiritual Use: Often used in ruqyah (spiritual healing) with Quranic recitations.
Quality Matters: Extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) is preferred for its purity and nutrient preservation.

For daily use, consume 1–2 tablespoons of high-quality EVOO or apply it to the skin for nourishment. Pairing these practices with faith and intention can enhance both physical and spiritual well-being.

Quranic and Prophetic Foundations for Healing with Olive Oil

Quranic Verses on Olive Oil's Blessings

The Quran highlights the olive tree as a powerful symbol of divine grace and enlightenment. In Surah An-Nur (24:35), the olive tree is described as "neither of the east nor of the west", which scholars interpret as a reference to trees growing in open spaces that receive sunlight throughout the day, producing exceptionally pure oil. This imagery beautifully conveys the idea of untainted guidance and unwavering faith that lights the way for believers. Additionally, the mention of the olive in Surah At-Tin (95:1), where Allah swears by it, underscores its significance - not just for physical health but also for spiritual well-being. These Quranic references lay the groundwork for understanding olive oil's role in both faith and healing.

Hadith on Olive Oil's Healing Properties

The teachings of the Prophet Muhammad expand on the Quranic insights, offering practical ways to benefit from olive oil. The Prophet encouraged its use for maintaining health, whether consumed as part of a diet or applied to the skin. Renowned Islamic scholars like Ibn al-Qayyim have documented its benefits, noting its positive effects on digestion, skin health, and overall wellness. In the practice of ruqyah (spiritual healing with Quranic verses), olive oil serves as a medium for recitation. Commonly recited verses include Al-Fatiha, Ayat al-Kursi, the concluding verses of Al-Baqarah, and the chapters Al-Ikhlas, Al-Falaq, and An-Nas. This oil is then either consumed in small amounts or applied topically, combining faith in Allah with a blessed remedy.

Modern Science and Olive Oil's Health Benefits

Contemporary research aligns with these traditional practices, offering a scientific perspective on olive oil's benefits. Extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) is rich in oleic acid, making up about 73% of its composition, and is packed with polyphenols - compounds known to combat oxidative stress and reduce inflammation. Regular consumption has been linked to lower levels of LDL ("bad") cholesterol and improved overall lipid profiles. Furthermore, studies suggest that applying olive oil to the skin can help protect against damage caused by UV rays, supporting its long-standing use as a natural skin protector. For readers in the U.S., incorporating 1–2 tablespoons (15–30 mL) of EVOO into daily meals is a practical way to enjoy its benefits. As always, it's wise to consult a healthcare provider for personalized advice.

Together, the Quranic teachings, Prophetic guidance, and modern scientific findings create a harmonious approach to healing, blending spiritual insight with practical health benefits.

Why Prophet Muhammad ﷺ Used Olive Oil? Benefits of Olive Oil.

How to Use Olive Oil in Islamic Healing

Using Olive Oil for Physical Healing

In Islamic tradition, olive oil holds a special place for its healing properties, both when consumed and applied. To support digestion and heart health, take 1–2 tablespoons of high-quality extra virgin olive oil daily. You can consume it on an empty stomach or use it as a flavorful dressing for meals like salads or vegetables.

When it comes to topical use, food-grade extra virgin olive oil can help soothe dry skin, irritation, or mild inflammation. Warm the oil slightly using a water bath and gently massage it into the skin until it’s absorbed. This practice has historical roots and is valued for its protective qualities.

These physical applications also pave the way for olive oil’s role in spiritual healing.

Ruqyah and Spiritual Healing with Olive Oil

In the practice of ruqyah, olive oil is often combined with Quranic recitations to seek Allah’s healing and protection. Begin by pouring clean extra virgin olive oil into a glass container. Then, recite specific Quranic verses and supplications over the oil, blowing lightly into it after each recitation. This process is deeply tied to the intention (niyyah) of asking for Allah’s help.

Once prepared, the oil can be used for massage, focusing on areas like the chest, back, and forehead. Many choose to do this before sleeping or after completing obligatory prayers. This practice blends physical healing with spiritual devotion, complementing daily worship, acts of charity, and ethical living. It’s important to note that this approach is not a substitute for medical or psychological care but can work alongside them.

Safety and Moderation in Usage

For most adults, consuming 1–2 tablespoons of olive oil daily fits well within heart-healthy dietary habits. However, those with conditions like gallbladder disease, pancreatitis, or significant digestive issues - or those following strict low-fat diets - should consult a healthcare provider before increasing their intake. Starting with 1–2 teaspoons and gradually increasing is a good approach.

Since olive oil is calorie-dense, it’s wise to factor this into your overall dietary plan. For children or individuals with sensitivities, smaller amounts (about ½–1 teaspoon) are recommended. If using the oil topically, it’s a good idea to perform a patch test on a small area of skin before applying it more broadly. This ensures safe and effective use for all.

Selecting and Storing Olive Oil for Healing

Choosing the Right Olive Oil

The type of olive oil you select plays a big role in its healing potential, particularly in Islamic practices. Extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) is the gold standard for both physical and spiritual healing. Why? Because it’s extracted mechanically - no chemical refining involved - preserving natural antioxidants and phenolic compounds that contribute to its benefits. When shopping, make sure the label clearly says "Extra Virgin Olive Oil." Avoid terms like "pure", "light", or "pomace", as these indicate the oil has undergone heavier processing.

Freshness is another key factor. Look for a visible harvest or press date rather than just a "best by" date. Olive oil is at its best within 12–18 months of harvest. For example, Big Horn Olive Oil ships their bottles within 1–3 months of harvest, ensuring top-notch freshness. Their oils are made from the finest 5% of harvested olives and are packed with antioxidant biophenols.

High-quality EVOO also has a free acidity level below 0.8%. You can recognize fresh oil by its green to golden hue, a clean fruity aroma (think fresh grass or green apples), and a balanced taste with a slight peppery kick in the throat - a sign of active polyphenols. If the oil smells rancid or lacks these characteristics, it may have oxidized and lost its healing properties.

To protect the oil’s quality, choose packaging that blocks light. Dark glass bottles or metal tins are ideal. In the U.S., opt for bottles between 8–25 fl oz (250–750 mL) to ensure the oil is consumed within 2–3 months of opening.

Once you’ve chosen high-quality olive oil, proper storage is essential to preserve its healing properties.

Proper Storage to Preserve Benefits

To maintain the beneficial properties of olive oil, store it in a cool, dark place with a temperature between 57–70°F (14–21°C). A cupboard away from heat sources like stoves or ovens works well. Heat and light speed up oxidation, which reduces the oil’s therapeutic value. Always seal the bottle tightly after use to minimize exposure to oxygen.

For families using olive oil in ruqyah, it’s recommended to store it in a clean, covered container - ideally a dark glass bottle kept in a shaded cupboard. Keeping a separate, clearly labeled bottle for ruqyah ensures its purity and aligns with the respectful practices (adab) associated with its use. Adding a label with the purchase or harvest date can help you track freshness and replace the oil regularly.

Avoid common storage mistakes like leaving bottles on sunny windowsills, buying oversized containers that may sit unused for too long, or loosely capping bottles. In hot climates, refrigeration can help slow oxidation, though the oil may become cloudy. If that happens, just let it return to room temperature before using it.

Adding Olive Oil Healing to Daily Life

Daily Consumption of Olive Oil

Make olive oil a staple in your daily meals. Aim for about 2 tablespoons (30 mL) per day as part of a balanced Mediterranean-style diet. Use it to enhance the flavor of eggs, salads, or roasted dishes. Brands like Big Horn Olive Oil offer infused varieties rich in antioxidant biophenols, ensuring both quality and adherence to Prophetic traditions.

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Before eating, say Bismillah and set the intention (niyyah) that the oil will nourish both your body and soul. This simple act transforms your meal into an opportunity for worship. Once olive oil becomes a regular part of your diet, you can easily incorporate it into your skincare routine as well.

Creating a Routine for Topical Use

Olive oil isn’t just for eating - it’s also great for your skin. Following Prophetic teachings, you can create a simple topical routine that fits into your day. After an evening shower, warm about a teaspoon (5 mL) of olive oil in your hands and gently massage it into dry areas like your feet or legs. If you live in a warm or sunny climate, applying a light layer of olive oil before stepping outside can help protect your skin, much like early Muslims who used it while working under the sun.

To make this habit easier, keep a small pump bottle of extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) in your bathroom for quick access after showers. If your skin is sensitive or acne-prone, patch-test a small area first to ensure it works for you.

Spiritual Maintenance with Olive Oil

Olive oil can also play a role in spiritual care. Using ruqyah-recited olive oil is a meaningful way to combine physical and spiritual well-being. To prepare it, recite Al-Fātiḥah, Ayat al-Kursi, the final verses of Al-Baqarah, and the three Quls (Al-Ikhlās, Al-Falāq, and An-Nās) over a clean bottle of olive oil, blowing into it after each recitation.

Apply a few drops weekly - perhaps on Thursday nights or before Jumuʿah - by massaging it onto your chest, forehead, or other areas while making duʿa for protection and healing. You can also consume a tablespoon of olive oil at breakfast with the intention of shifā' (healing), blending physical nourishment with spiritual awareness.

Conclusion

Olive oil occupies a special role in Islamic healing, seamlessly connecting the spiritual guidance of the Quran and Hadith with well-documented health advantages. The Prophet ﷺ encouraged both the consumption and external application of olive oil, and modern science backs its benefits, such as lowering harmful LDL cholesterol and promoting heart health. This combination of faith-based wisdom and scientific evidence highlights the value of using only top-quality olive oil.

Opting for premium extra virgin olive oil not only adheres to Prophetic teachings but also ensures you reap its full health benefits. Big Horn Olive Oil exemplifies this standard, offering fresh, pure products that are never blended with other oils. Their extra virgin olive oils (EVOOs) boast a high smoke point of 410°F or more, which helps retain their beneficial properties even during cooking.

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Incorporating olive oil into daily life can be both simple and meaningful. Whether it's drizzling 2 tablespoons (30 mL) over breakfast, massaging 1 teaspoon (5 mL) onto dry skin after a shower, or using it in spiritual practices with recited verses, each use becomes an opportunity for worship when paired with bismillah and sincere intention. By choosing high-quality olive oil and making it a consistent part of your routine, you’re not just honoring the Sunnah - you’re embracing a lifestyle that nurtures both body and soul in harmony with Prophetic tradition.

FAQs

How is olive oil used in Islamic spiritual healing practices like ruqyah?

In Islamic traditions, olive oil plays a meaningful role in ruqyah - a form of spiritual healing that incorporates Quranic recitation and supplications. It is believed to offer both physical and spiritual benefits. During ruqyah, olive oil may be applied to the skin or consumed while specific verses from the Quran are recited. This practice reflects the deep significance of olive oil in Islamic teachings, as highlighted in the Quran (Surah An-Nur, 24:35), where it is celebrated for its blessings and healing properties.

If you're considering olive oil for such purposes, Ultra Premium Extra Virgin Olive Oil is a great option due to its purity and health advantages. To ensure the best results, always choose fresh, high-quality olive oil for both spiritual and physical uses.

Why is extra virgin olive oil valued in Islamic healing traditions?

Extra virgin olive oil plays a prominent role in Islamic healing traditions, celebrated for its purity, freshness, and numerous health benefits. Packed with antioxidants like biophenols, it offers anti-inflammatory and restorative properties, aligning perfectly with the natural remedies emphasized in Islamic teachings.

Beyond its health advantages, olive oil carries deep spiritual importance in Islam. The Quran refers to the olive tree as blessed, symbolizing nourishment and wellness. This dual significance makes olive oil a cornerstone in both physical care and spiritual healing within the faith.

How can I use olive oil daily for both health and spiritual benefits in line with Islamic traditions?

In Islamic traditions, olive oil holds a special place, celebrated both for its health benefits and spiritual significance, as highlighted in the Quran and Hadith. You can easily incorporate extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) into your daily life. Use it in cooking, drizzle it over salads, or even apply it as a natural remedy for nourishing your skin and hair. Packed with nutrients and antioxidants, it’s a versatile ingredient that supports both diet and wellness.

Beyond its physical benefits, olive oil also has a spiritual dimension. It can be used in self-care practices or massages, serving as a moment to reflect on its importance in Islamic teachings. When selecting olive oil, go for high-quality options like Ultra Premium Extra Virgin Olive Oil (EVOO) to enjoy its peak freshness, rich flavor, and health-enhancing properties.