My mum uses a herbal medicine which has some oyster shell. Is it permissible to use this?
Answer:
In the name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful
Assalaamu `alaykum waRahmatullahi Wabarakatuh
It is impermissible to consume any type of animal that lives in the water except the fish. Oysters are not classified as fish according to the Jurists; therefore, if medications containing oyster are for consumption, it will not be permissible. [Ref: Raddul-Mukhtaar vol. 6 pg. 306. H.M. Saeed].
However, if there is no alternative medication and an experienced Muslim doctor or the Muslim herbalist advises that your mother is in need of this medication; such medication will then be permissible to use.
And Allah Ta’ala Knows Best
Wassalamu Alaykum
Ml. Mohammad Ashhad bin Said
Correspondence Iftaa Student, Mauritius
Checked and Approved by:
Mufti Ebrahim Desai
Darul Iftaa, Madrassah In’aamiyyah