Debate on use of toothpaste during Ramzan

For Muslims, using tooth paste to brush one’s teeth while fasting is not advisable.

Doubts have been expressed by many Muslims whether using toothpaste would have an impact on fasting. Islamic scholars have advised that Muslims can use a miswak (twig) stick to brush their teeth while fasting, but they must ensure that they do not swallow the saliva generated.

Many scholars actually say a strict no to toothpaste during fasting. Using miswak or siwak stick is Sunnat. It is good for health too, said the Ulema.

Miswak is a twig, mostly of neem, olive or any tree that has fibrous veins so that it does not harm or damage the gums.

Jamia Nizamia chancellor Syed Akbar Nizamuddin said using toothpaste is “makrooh” during fasting as it has sweetness, mint and other flavours and ingredients.

Also, there is a possibility of the paste going down one’s throat, which, if it happens, results in invalidation of the Roza. Hence, it is advisable not to use toothpaste.

Of course, people can brush their teeth with a plain toothbrush.

“Prophet Muhammad used to use miswak for brushing his teeth. Using miswak is in fact recommended for fasting Muslims,” Mr Nizamuddin said.

On whether men can go for a haircut while fasting, scholars said that cleanliness is of paramount importance in Islam and having a haircut is allowed during fasting.

Women can apply henna (mehendi) while fasting as it does not affect the Roza. External use of balm is also allowed while fasting.

Mufti Azeemuddin of Dar-ul-Ifta said women are allowed to taste the food while cooking only to know the content of salt or spices while fasting, but if they eat it their fast would be invalidated.

This permission to taste is allowed only in rare cases wherein the husband or head of the family is very particular about the taste of the food the wife cooks and there are chances of him resorting to physical punishment of the woman.

Using attar is Sunnat, and its use during fasting is advisable. The attar should be applied on clothes or externally.