In an authentic hadith narrated by Anas Ibn Malik, the Prophet ﷺ said: "the remedy for sciatica is the fatty tail of an Arabian sheep, split and divided into three portions, consumed on an empty stomach for three days." The sheep's tail contains what we today call Omega-3s; they are found in capsule form and are anti-inflammatory.
To this we can add collagen, and in particular marine collagen, as well as glucosamine.
What the science says about these remedies
The guidance given above by the professor aligns with several studies published in peer-reviewed medical journals. These studies replace neither medical advice nor healing, which belongs to Allah alone, but they shed light on how these remedies act on the body.
Omega-3s: the anti-inflammatory in sheep's tail fat
- A meta-analysis of clinical trials concluded that omega-3 fatty acids reduce pain, morning stiffness and the number of tender joints in people with rheumatoid arthritis (Arch Med Res, 2012).
- A more recent review confirms their effect on inflammation and disease activity (Clin Rheumatol, 2024).
- A 2021 meta-analysis shows that anti-inflammatory diets (fatty fish, olive oil, vegetables, little processed food) reduce pain in rheumatoid arthritis (Nutrients, 2021).
Glucosamine and chondroitin: for the cartilage
- A systematic review in the British Journal of Sports Medicine examined the supplements used for knee and hip osteoarthritis: glucosamine and chondroitin are among those showing a benefit on pain, with a good tolerability profile (Br J Sports Med, 2018).
- A 2023 meta-analysis confirms the value of combining them for knee osteoarthritis (Arch Orthop Trauma Surg, 2023).
Collagen: for the structure of the joint
- Hydrolyzed collagen, including marine collagen, has been the subject of a review showing a reduction in joint pain and improved mobility in people with osteoarthritis (Curr Med Res Opin, 2006).
- A recent trial combining type II collagen and hydrolyzed collagen confirms these results (Sci Rep, 2025).
Which remedy for which situation?
| Remedy | Acts on | Time to effect | In what form |
|---|---|---|---|
| Omega-3 | Inflammation (pain, morning stiffness) | 4 to 8 weeks | Fatty fish, flaxseed oil, fish oil capsules |
| Glucosamine + chondroitin | Cartilage (knee, hip osteoarthritis) | 2 to 3 months | Capsules or sachets, in a 3- to 6-month course |
| Marine collagen | The structure and flexibility of the joint | 2 to 3 months | Powder or capsules, in the morning, with vitamin C |
| Lifestyle | Everything: weight, circulation, inflammation | Ongoing | Walking, swimming, sleep, anti-inflammatory diet |
In practice
A typical three-month course
- Omega-3: favor food sources (sardines, mackerel, flaxseed oil) or a quality fish oil in capsules — the effects are gradual.
- Glucosamine + chondroitin: the studies involve courses of 3 to 6 months; patience is needed.
- Marine collagen: in powder or capsules, preferably in the morning; pair it with a source of vitamin C, which helps its synthesis.
What the professor stresses in his courses
Gentle, regular movement (walking, swimming), a healthy weight, and enough sleep: three pillars without which no supplement gives its full effect.
Contraindications and precautions
High-dose omega-3s slightly thin the blood: ask your doctor's advice if you are on anticoagulant treatment or before a surgery. Glucosamine is often extracted from shellfish: be careful in case of allergy. These remedies accompany medical follow-up, they do not replace it — Islam encourages us to seek treatment, while placing our trust in Allah.
Our recommendation
Start with an anti-inflammatory diet and movement, add omega-3s, then — if osteoarthritis has set in — a three-month course of glucosamine-chondroitin and collagen. A practitioner can adjust the doses to your age, weight and treatments.
Frequently asked questions
How long before feeling an effect?
Generally allow 4 to 8 weeks for omega-3s, and 2 to 3 months for glucosamine, chondroitin or collagen. These are background remedies, not immediate painkillers.
Can these remedies be combined?
Yes, they act through different mechanisms (inflammation, cartilage, structure) and are frequently combined. Talk to your practitioner to adjust the doses to your situation.
Is the sheep's tail fat mentioned in the hadith essential?
The professor explains that this prophetic remedy owes its benefit to its richness in omega-3 type fats; failing Arabian sheep, these fatty acids are found in fatty fish and in capsule form.
Are these remedies suitable for sciatica?
Sciatica is an inflammation of the nerve: omega-3s and an anti-inflammatory diet are the most relevant, along with relative rest and heat. Sciatica that lasts or comes with weakness in the leg should be seen by a doctor.
Should anti-inflammatory treatment be stopped?
No, never without the advice of the doctor who prescribed it. Natural remedies are added to the treatment and may, over time, allow the dose to be reduced with the doctor's agreement.
