In Islam, cleanliness is very important. By following the teachings of Islam, outward and inward blessings are attained. However, the ultimate aim of a Muslim should be the reward of the hereafter. As far as Miswak is concerned, the scholars have said that it is a Compulsory Sunnah (Sunnah Moukkada) to use Miswak at the time of every Wudhu. Apart from this, using Miswak whenever there is bad breath, on awakening from sleep, on entering the house, before meeting people and before recitation of the Holy Quran is Commendable (Mustahab) and better.
Imam Azam (May Allah be well pleased with him) has said that using Miswak
is among the Sunnah of the religion. Thus, Miswak can be used on all occasions and in all conditions. As given in Radd Ul Muhtaar, Kitab Ut Taharah.
There is much excellence and many medicinal benefits in using miswak. The least benefit of using miswak is that the mouth is free of odor and the best benefit is that the person dies with the Muslim Faith (Iman). As mentioned in Durre Mukhtaar, Vol. 1, Pg. No. 85.
Miswak of every tree is correct and permissible. It is Commendable that Miswak should be of a soft tree, whose taste is bitter. The Miswak of Peelu, also known as Arak tree is better than all other Miswak, then the Miswak of olive tree. However, the Miswak of pomegranate and bamboo is harmful and their use is not correct.
It is given in Miraaqil Falah, Pg. No. 40:
Miswak should be of a soft tree, as thick as a finger, a hand-breadth long, as straight as possible and of “Peelu”.
It is given in Tahawi Ala Miraqil Falah:
It is Commendable that if it is dry, it should be wetted and after using, it should be washed, so that Satan does not make it his Miswak. Also, the Miswak should be of a bitter tree. This removes phlegm, clears the chest and helps in digestion of food. Miswak of “Peelu” is the best, then of olive and the Miswak of any tree is permissible, excepting of pomegranate and bamboo, as they are harmful from the medical point of view.
Ref: www.ziaislamic.com/english/news1descr1.php?ids=1066&&key=food
