Quince — known as Safarjal (السفرجل) in Arabic and Bahi in Urdu/Hindi — is a fragrant golden fruit praised in traditional medicine and mentioned in classical Islamic scholarship. Though less common today, it holds a respected place in Tibb an-Nabawi (Prophetic Medicine) and natural healing traditions.

In this article, we explore its names, prophetic guidance, traditional wisdom, and scientifically recognized health benefits.

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🌿 Names of Quince in Different Languages

• Arabic: Safarjal (السفرجل)

• Urdu / Hindi: Bahi

• English: Quince

• Persian: Shul

• Sanskrit: Amritphala

• Latin (Scientific name): Cydonia oblonga

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📜 Prophetic Guidance About Quince

Several narrations mention the virtues of Safarjal:

1️⃣ Strengthens the Heart (Qalb)

It is reported that the Prophet ﷺ once held a quince in his blessed hand and said it strengthens the heart.

Scholars of Hadith have discussed its grading, and classical Islamic physicians preserved its medicinal uses in heart conditions.

2️⃣ Relieves Heaviness in the Chest

According to narrations, eating quince helps relieve heaviness of the chest and supports respiratory comfort.

3️⃣ A Gift with Benefits

It is narrated that the Prophet ﷺ said:

“Eat quince, for it removes heaviness from the chest.”

Traditional scholars explained that this refers both to physical chest discomfort and emotional heaviness.

4️⃣ Recommended During Pregnancy

Some narrations mention that eating quince during pregnancy is beneficial and contributes to overall well-being.

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🌸 Traditional Benefits of Safarjal (Quince)

In classical Unani and Tibb literature, quince is described as:

• Strengthening for the heart

• Beneficial for breath and lungs

• Helpful in reducing inflammation

• Supportive in digestive weakness

• Useful in managing mild diarrhea

• Cooling and soothing in temperament

Quince jam and quince syrup were traditionally used to improve appetite and strengthen the stomach.

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🧪 Scientific & Nutritional Benefits of Quince

Modern nutrition research confirms that quince is rich in:

• Vitamin C

• Dietary fiber

• Antioxidants

• Polyphenols

• Potassium

• Iron

• Vitamin A and B-complex

🔬 Health Benefits Backed by Science

✔ Supports heart health
✔ Helps reduce inflammation
✔ Aids digestion
✔ May reduce cholesterol levels
✔ Supports immune system
✔ Natural remedy for cough and mild respiratory irritation

Quince seeds, when soaked in water, produce a soothing gel traditionally used for throat irritation and dry cough.

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🍯 How to Use Quince

Quince is rarely eaten raw due to its firmness and tart taste. It is best consumed:

• Cooked or stewed

• As quince jam

• As herbal syrup

• In tea

• Seed infusion for cough

💡 Traditional advice recommends eating it in moderation and preferably in the morning.

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❤️ Spiritual & Physical Balance

Islamic medicine beautifully integrates spiritual well-being with physical health. Quince was not just appreciated for its nutritional value but also for its uplifting effect on the heart — both physically and emotionally.

Reviving forgotten Sunnah foods like Safarjal reconnects us with holistic healing traditions.

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Conclusion

Quince (Safarjal) is a powerful yet forgotten fruit with roots in Prophetic guidance and classical medicine. Its heart-strengthening, digestion-supporting, and immune-boosting properties make it a valuable addition to a natural lifestyle.

Revive this Sunnah superfruit and benefit from its physical and spiritual nourishment.