Ibn Sina – Physician – Philosopher c. 1000

Coffee’s Health Claims Debated

Middle East, C. 1000
Coffee drinking is becoming more widespread in the Arab world. Persian physician Ibn Sina (Avicenna) has advocated the use of the beverage because of its medicinal qualities. Coffee is believed to invigorate the spirit and help to ward off sleepiness.

Islamic theologians scholars and scientists have been debating whether this is a good thing, or whether coffee is a harmful substance.

Islamic theologians

are also divided on the merits of the drink. While many agree that it is a good substitute for alcohol, the use of which is forbidden by the Qu’ran, others feel that its use is not religiously appropriate. Coffee is sometimes referred to as “gahwa,” which means “prevents sleep,” and many religious men have seen the advantages of its use in staying awake for prayer and meditation.

Yet while a debate is raging, ordinary people are enjoying the taste of the beverage, some sweetening its bitterness with honey or sugar according to their taste. Coffee is often said to have been accidentally discovered when a shepherd noticed that a flock became hyperactive when they ate certain berries. Yet coffee beans are believed to have been cultivated for hundreds of years, and there is a reference in Holmer’s Odyssey to an unusual beverage, which many believe is a reference to Bochum or coffee. However, it is only now that it is beginning to gain wider popularity.

Trades first brought coffee beans from Africa and grew the plant for its berries. When mature, the berries are boiled and the resulting beverage is not only delicious but an effective stimulant.

and so it happened, they say!😁