QUESTION:
I prefer to use plants as a means of medication as apposed to pharmacy/generic medication. Is it permissible to buy herbal plants to use as medicines from the people that follow the Rastafarian beliefs?
ANSWER:
There is no harm in purchasing plants from the Rastafarians. Generally, it is permissible to buy and sell plants, hence there is no harm in purchasing normal plants from them. Yes, if they are selling plants that are used for intoxication, then purchasing such plants with the intention of attaining pleasure therefrom (by smoking or consuming it) will not be permitted. If the plants are purchased for medicinal use, then they will only be permitted if a Halaal alternative is not available and there is certainty that one will be cured by using the plant. The treatment must be prescribed by a pious Muslim doctor.
الْبَيْعَ يَنْعَقِدُ بِالْإِيجَابِ وَالْقَبُولِ فِي مَحَلٍّ قَابِلٍ لَهُ وَلَا يَخْتَلُّ شَيْءٌ مِنْ ذَلِكَ بِالشَّرْطِ الْفَاسِدِ (المبسوط للسرخسي ص24 ج13)
اختلف في التداوي بالحرام (الي) وقيل يرخص اذا علم فيه الشفاء ولم يعلم دواء اخر وعليه الفتوي (شامي ص154 ج1)
ALLAH TA’ALA ALONE IN HIS INFINITE KNOWLEDGE KNOWS BEST!
ANSWERED BY:
Mufti Mohammed Desai
Date:- 15 Jumadal Ukhra 1445 / 29 December 2023
