Sacred Sidr Tree

The Sidr tree (Ziziphus spina-christi) is other wise known as the Lote Tree, Christ’s Thorn, Jujube Tree, or nabskh. Throughout history the Sidr Tree has been considered sacred by many different peoples and all parts of the tree have been used as medicine.

Yemeni Sidr Tree at Hadramout

Sidr Tree from Yemen

The Sidr Tree is considered sacred because it is mentioned in the Holy Quran as being among the plants in Paradise. And it was said to be one of the plants that survived the ancient floods that took place in Yemen. The fruit of the sidr tree is said to be the first thing Adam ate when he arrived on Earth. It is also believed that king Solomon used the wood from the Sidr tree to build temples.

Sidr Tree Used as Medicine

The leaves of the sidr tree have been used as a kind of ancient shampoo to clean and scent the hair. When mixed with water the resins of the sidr tree leaves act as a cleanser and deodorant for the skin, leaving a lingering scent. The Sidr Tree hs also been used as a treatment for swollen eyes, abscesses, an astringent, and a cough medicine.