The wild cucumber is found in the Arabian Peninsula. Abdullah Ibn Jaffar reported having seen the Messenger eat fresh dates with wild cucumber. This cucumber is cold and moist in the second degree, and extinguishes the heat of an inflamed stomach. Composed of 95% water, it hydrates and rehydrates. It contains vitamin C and K as well as potassium. It is consumed in juice, in salad, or cooked. The alpha hydroxy acid present in cucumber is used in cosmetics. Furthermore, it is detoxifying and anti-stress due to the presence of a natural calming agent: pyridoxine, which is also found in certain medications.
In addition, Ibn al-Qayyim says that it is good for bladder pain, that its smell is useful in cases of fainting, that its seeds are diuretic and therefore effective for the kidneys, but also for diabetics. Its leaves used as a poultice are useful. Cucumber is slow to descend to the stomach, and its coolness is harmful to part of the stomach, so it should be consumed with something that improves it and soothes its moisture and coolness, as the Prophet ﷺ did by consuming it with dates; to improve it, one may also consume it with raisins or honey.
What the science says: reflux and the stomach
Here is what published research says about the remedies mentioned above, for context — these studies address material causes; healing belongs to Allah.
Reflux and the stomach
Gastroesophageal reflux responds first to lifestyle: light meals eaten early, raising the head of the bed, a healthy weight, quitting smoking, and less coffee and fat (JAMA, 2020) (Ther Clin Risk Manag, 2021); traditional medicine plants (licorice, chamomile, ginger) have been evaluated for dyspepsia (Curr Drug Discov Technol, 2021). Precaution: licorice raises blood pressure; persistent heartburn, difficulty swallowing, or weight loss should be looked into by a doctor.
