Ma' al-Sha'eer (Barley water)

One of the oldest Unani drinks, made from de-husked barley cooked in water; a light and easily digestible tonic praised by Hippocrates.

Ingredients

Jaw Muqashshar / Sha'eer Muqashshar (de-husked barley) 100 g; Aab (water) 1 L

Method of Preparation

Soak barley overnight, drain and sun-dry, then de-husk by pounding. Boil 100 g in 1 L of water on low flame until the grains burst and the water thickens and turns brown. Filter to obtain the liquid, cool, and store. Use with sugar or salt as per taste. Serving: 1-2 cups.

Health Benefits

A light, easily digestible, energetic drink offering moderate nutrition, suitable for both health and disease, children and elders. Quenches thirst, cleanses body wastes through urine, and improves digestion, metabolism and blood circulation.