As a Student in Naturopathy Can I Taste Alcohol Fluid Extracts?

Answered by Ustadh Tabraze Azam

Question: Assalamualaikum

I am taking a Bachelor of Naturopathy, and in my Herbal Medicine class we are often given alcohol fluid extracts to taste. Is it permissible for me to taste the alcohol tinctures and fluid extracts in class?

Am I allowed to prescribe alcohol medication to non-Muslim clients? Or even my Muslim clients if I feel that the alcohol medication is the best option?

Answer: Wa alaikum assalam wa rahmatullahi wa barakatuh,

I pray that you are in the best of health and faith, insha’Allah.

If you are referring to non-wine alcohol, namely that which is not derived from grapes, dates or raisins, then tasting such extracts would appear to be permissible.

In general, it is permitted to use and consume non-wine alcohol as long as: (1) it is not used as an intoxicant, (2) it is not used as intoxicants are used, (3) it is not used in an amount which intoxicates, and (4) it is not used in vain.

What you have described does not seem to fall under any of these prohibiting conditions, and is thus permitted to use.

As for prescribing such medicines for Muslims, you should first look to alternatives in order to avoid the difference of opinion on the issue. Consult other religious practitioners and see what they do.

Please also see: Can We Use Deodorants, Creams, and Perfumes That Contain Alcohol? and: Alcoholic Content in Soft Drinks

And Allah alone gives success.

Tabraze Azam

Checked & Approved by Shaykh Faraz Rabbani