Confused about whether alcohol in mouthwash counts as ‘drinking’? People online are sharing quick swaps and heated opinions — here’s the simple breakdown
A review of different religious scholars’ views on the use of alcohol-containing mouthwashes and halal alternatives.
With advances in science and technology, oral care and hygiene products have changed significantly. One of these products is mouthwash, which is used to improve oral hygiene and prevent various problems.
One common type of mouthwash is those that contain alcohol. In this article we examine the rulings on the use of alcohol-containing mouthwashes in Islam and try to answer whether using them is permissible (halal) or not.
Alcohols are chemical compounds used in many hygienic and medicinal products. Ethanol, which is also known as drinking alcohol, is one of the most common types of alcohol. This substance can be used as a disinfectant and preservative in various products, including mouthwashes.
In Islam, the consumption of alcoholic beverages is strictly prohibited. The Qur'an emphasizes the prohibition of intoxicating drinks in several verses and enjoins Muslims against them. Therefore, it is necessary to examine whether using alcohol-containing mouthwashes is considered equivalent to drinking alcohol or not.
Religious scholars hold varying opinions on this issue. Some believe that because mouthwashes are designed to rinse the mouth and not to be swallowed, their use is permissible. According to this view, if the alcohol in the mouthwash is present in very small amounts and is used for rinsing the mouth, its use may be considered halal.
On the other hand, some scholars emphasize the prohibition of using any product that contains alcohol, arguing that since alcohol itself is forbidden, its use in any form—including in mouthwashes—would also be impermissible.
Using alcohol-containing mouthwashes can have benefits, including:
• Disinfection: These mouthwashes typically act as strong disinfectants and can eliminate bacteria and viruses in the mouth.
• Preventing bad breath: Alcohol can kill bacteria that cause bad breath and help maintain a fresher breath.
But alongside these benefits, there are drawbacks:
• Dry mouth: Alcohol can cause dry mouth and reduce saliva production, which may lead to oral health problems.
• Irritation of the mucous membrane: Repeated use of alcohol-containing mouthwashes may irritate the mucous membranes of the mouth and throat.
Given the concerns surrounding alcohol-containing mouthwashes, many people seek alternatives that are both effective and halal. Some of these alternatives include:
• Alcohol-free mouthwashes: These mouthwashes can help maintain oral hygiene without containing alcohol.
• Natural products: The use of natural compounds such as saline (salt water), apple cider vinegar, and coconut oil can also assist in improving oral hygiene.
Conclusion:
Ultimately, whether using alcohol-containing mouthwashes is allowed in Islam is a complex issue influenced by different scholarly opinions. While some scholars find these products permissible, others prohibit them. In any case, Muslims should base their decisions on scholars' advice and their personal circumstances. Exploring alternative solutions can help individuals maintain oral hygiene without relying on alcohol-based products.
