Prophetic Foods Series: Nabidh — The Blessed Fermented Drink from the Sunnah

Nabidh has recently gained attention among holistic health enthusiasts, yet its origins trace back over 1,400 years in the Sunnah of the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ. This simple drink, created by soaking dates or raisins in water, unlocks a natural sweetness that rejuvenates the body and soothes the digestive system. It is one of the most accessible Prophetic remedies, requiring no special equipment or ingredients just pure fruit and clean water. 

As people today seek organic alternatives to processed drinks, Nabidh stands out as a timeless, evidence-backed beverage. Its mild fermentation adds a gentle probiotic effect, offering a uniquely balanced blend of tradition and nutrition. In this blog, we explore its Hadith roots, health benefits, preparation methods, and frequently asked questions to help you fully embrace this Sunnah drink.

Hadith References About Nabidh

1. Avoid Mixing Different Fruits Together

The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ instructed that Nabidh should be prepared using only one type of fruit at a time. This guidance prevents excessive fermentation, which could lead to alcohol formation. Keeping fruits separate maintains purity, safety, and adherence to Sunnah. Scholars explain that even in nutrition, the Prophet ﷺ emphasized clarity, moderation, and precaution. This Hadith shows how seemingly simple instructions carry deep spiritual and physical wisdom. Following it ensures that the drink remains wholesome and permissible.

Key Points:

• Do NOT mix ripe and unripe dates
  
• Do NOT mix dates and raisins
  
• Do NOT mix grapes with dates
  
• Prepare Nabidh using one fruit only
  
• This slows fermentation and prevents forming alcohol
  
• Ensures the purity of the Sunnah drink
  

2. A Noble Routine of the Early Muslims

The narration of Ali ibn Husain (رضي الله عنه) shows that Nabidh was consumed regularly — morning and night. This indicates its role as a daily source of hydration and nourishment among righteous predecessors. Early Muslims saw Nabidh not only as a drink but as a lifestyle of health and discipline. Its ease of preparation made it accessible to all households. The alternating day-night preparation ensured freshness and avoided over-fermentation. This consistent use highlights its spiritual and health significance.

Key Takeaways:

• Nabidh was a daily drink for many early Muslims
  
• It provided hydration, strength, and clarity
  
• Prepared twice a day to maintain freshness
  
• A Sunnah practice that merged tradition with daily living
  
• Demonstrates health-conscious habits in early Islamic culture
  
• Shows Nabidh’s long-standing acceptance
  

What Exactly Is Nabidh?

Nabidh is a non-alcoholic, mildly fermented drink made by soaking dates or raisins in clean water for several hours. The fruit releases nutrients, minerals, and natural sugars into the water, creating a wholesome tonic. Because fermentation is short and controlled, the drink remains halal and safe. Nabidh was especially valuable in hot climates where hydration was essential. It provides a naturally sweet alternative to sugary beverages. Today, Nabidh can be enjoyed as both a daily drink and a Sunnah-inspired wellness practice.

Nutritional Breakdown (per serving)

Top Health Benefits of Nabidh

1. Supports Gut Health Naturally

Nabidh introduces natural probiotics due to its mild fermentation. These probiotics help balance the gut microbiome, which plays a major role in digestion and immunity. The drink’s alkalinity helps reduce bloating and gas. Drinking Nabidh regularly can support smoother digestion, especially in people with mild digestive issues. It also enhances nutrient absorption. Overall, Nabidh acts as a gentle, Sunnah-inspired digestive tonic.

Gut Health Benefits (Bullet Points):

• Promotes healthy gut bacteria
  
• Reduces bloating and gas
  
• Improves digestion naturally
  
• Helps regulate bowel movements
  
• Supports immunity through gut balance
  
• Acts as a gentle probiotic drink
  

2. Provides a Clean, Sustainable Energy Boost

Dates and raisins contain natural glucose and potassium, making Nabidh a perfect energy drink. This energy is released slowly, providing stamina without crashes. Athletes, workers, students, and fasting individuals benefit from its clean energy profile. It’s especially useful during Suhoor and Iftar where the body needs quick nutrition. Unlike artificial energy drinks, Nabidh hydrates while energizing. It’s ideal for mornings and pre-workout consumption.

Why Nabidh Is a Great Energy Drink:

• Contains natural sugars
  
• Provides long-lasting energy
  
• No caffeine crash
  
• Hydrates while energizing
  
• Supports muscle function
  
• Good for students, athletes, and workers
  

3. Reduces Acidity & Inflammation

Nabidh’s alkaline nature helps neutralize stomach acid, providing relief from acidity, indigestion, and acid reflux. This makes it beneficial for individuals with digestive discomfort. The anti-inflammatory properties support joint health and reduce symptoms of arthritis and gout. Many people notice a cooling, soothing effect after drinking Nabidh. Its natural minerals help reduce internal heat and inflammation. This makes it an ideal drink for those seeking digestive balance.

Acidity & Inflammation Relief Table

4. Strengthens Liver, Spleen & Detoxification

Nabidh supports liver function by providing simple sugars and antioxidants that aid in cleansing. Its hydration factor improves blood flow and nutrient transportation. Traditional healers emphasize that Nabidh strengthens the spleen, which plays a key role in immunity. The drink also helps filter toxins and improves metabolic processes. Regular consumption may support overall vitality and resilience. This makes Nabidh a natural detoxifying agent within the Sunnah.

Detox Benefits:

• Supports liver cleansing
  
• Improves blood sugar processing
  
• Enhances hydration-based detox
  
• Strengthens spleen function
  
• Boosts energy via detox pathways
  
• Encourages balanced metabolism
  

5. Enhances Memory & Mental Focus

The natural sugars in Nabidh feed the brain with clean, steady energy. Dates and raisins contain magnesium, antioxidants, and B-vitamins — all essential for brain health. Many people report improved concentration after drinking Nabidh in the morning. The antioxidants support brain aging and memory retention. Because Nabidh hydrates deeply, it also prevents fatigue-induced brain fog. It’s a nourishing drink for students, professionals, and elders alike.

Brain-Boosting Benefits of Nabidh:

• Supports memory
  
• Enhances focus
  
• Improves alertness
  
• Nourishes brain cells
  
• Reduces mental fatigue
  
• Provides clean cognitive energy
  

How to Make Nabidh (Sunnah Method)

Both methods date Nabidh and raisin Nabidh follow the same simple steps. Using clean water and a clean glass jar is important to avoid contamination. Nabidh should ferment only mildly, so avoid leaving it out for too long. Once refrigerated, it stays fresh for up to three days. Preparing Nabidh is simple enough to incorporate into a daily Sunnah routine. Below is the recommended recipe for best results.

Ingredients (Choose One Fruit Only)

Use ONE of the following:

• Dates (any variety — Ajwa preferred)
  
• Raisins (black or golden)
  

Additional Needs:

• 1 cup water
  
• Clean glass jar
  
• Loose-fitting lid
  

Why Odd Numbers?

• Prophetic preference
  
• Added barakah (blessing)
  
• Following the Sunnah in detail
  

Method (Step-by-Step)

1. Add dates or raisins to the jar.
   
2. Pour water until fruit is fully submerged.
   
3. Cover loosely — do not seal airtight.
   
4. Let it sit for 8–12 hours at room temperature.
   
5. Refrigerate and consume within 3 days.
   
6. Discard if it becomes fizzy, bubbly, or sour.
   

Fermentation Safety Table

Ways to Enjoy Nabidh

1. Simple Sunnah Style

• Drink the infused water
  
• Eat the softened fruit afterward
  
• Perfect for Suhoor and Iftar
  
• Naturally hydrating
  
• Supports digestion
  
• Easy to prepare daily
  

2. Modern Refreshing Version

Blend:

• Nabidh water
  
• Lemon juice
  
• Honey
  
• Ice cubes
  

This version is cooling, hydrating, and great for summer.

3. Smoothie Boost

Use Nabidh-soaked dates or raisins in:

• Milkshakes
  
• Smoothies
  
• Breakfast bowls
  
• Post-workout shakes
  

Adds natural sweetness and nutrients.

A Spiritual Reflection

In a world filled with fast food and artificial drinks, Nabidh reconnects us with the beautiful simplicity of the Sunnah. This drink reminds us that healing can come from basic, natural sources — not complexity. Nabidh teaches moderation, mindfulness, and appreciation for wholesome foods. It also brings spiritual awareness by reviving a Sunnah practice. Through Nabidh, we return to the balance and purity that the Prophet ﷺ lived by. It’s a drink that nourishes both body and soul.

FAQs

1. Is Nabidh alcoholic?

• No, not when consumed fresh
  
• Only becomes alcoholic after long fermentation
  
• Must be consumed within 8–36 hours
  
• Refrigerate to slow fermentation
  
• Discard if fizzy or sour
  

2. Can I mix dates and raisins?

• No — mixing increases fermentation
  
• The Prophet ﷺ forbade mixing fruits
  
• Use one fruit at a time
  
• Ensures drink stays halal
  
• Prevents accidental alcohol formation
  

3. How long does Nabidh last?

• Up to 3 days in the refrigerator
  
• Best consumed within 24 hours
  
• Smell test is essential
  
• If it’s citrus-like or bubbly, discard
  

4. Which dates are best?

• Ajwa (most blessed)
  
• Medjool (sweetest)
  
• Safawi (soft + nutrient-rich)
  
• Amber (large + delicious)
  
• Deglet Noor (affordable)
  

5. Can pregnant women drink Nabidh?

• Yes, if fresh and non-fermented
  
• Consult doctor for safety
  
• Provides natural energy
  
• Helps with mild constipation
  
• Avoid over-fermented versions