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Embelia grossularia, Pella ribesioides, Rivina paniculata, Salvadora crassinervia, Salvadora paniculata, Salvadora wightii
Arak, Galenia asiatica, Meswak, mustard bush, mustard tree, Peelu, Pi-lu, Salvadora indica, toothbrush tree
Salvadora persica (Arak, Galenia asiatica, Meswak, Peelu, Pīlu, Salvadora indica, or toothbrush tree, mustard tree, mustard bush), is a species of Salvadora. Salvadora persica has antiurolithiatic properties. Used for centuries as a natural toothbrush, its fibrous branches have been promoted by the World Health Organization for oral hygiene use. Research suggests that it contains a number of medically beneficial properties including abrasives, antiseptics, astringent, detergents, enzyme inhibitors, and fluoride.[+]
Salvadora persica, also known as toothbrush tree or miswak, is a shrub native to Africa and Asia. In Qatar, it has been found growing wild, particularly in coastal areas and saline environments. Studies have shown that S. persica is well adapted to Qatar's arid conditions, tolerating high temperatures and salinity. The plant has been traditionally used for oral hygiene and medicinal purposes, with its bark and roots containing antibacterial properties. In Qatar, it has been identified as a valuable species for landscaping and conservation efforts due to its drought tolerance and ability to thrive in poor soil conditions.
Toothbrush tree (Salvadora persica) near Souq Al Ali. Doha, Qatar, March 13, 2015
Doha Expressway, Doha, Qatar
Branch of toothbrush tree (Salvadora persica) with fruits near Souq Al Ali. Doha, Qatar, March 13, 2015Doha Expressway, Doha, Qatar
Branch of toothbrush tree (Salvadora persica) with flowers and fruits near Souq Al Ali. Doha, Qatar, March 13, 2015Doha Expressway, Doha, Qatar
Large toothbrush tree (Salvadora persica) on Al Nour Street in Al Luqta area. Doha, Qatar, March 13, 2015Al Maha St, Doha, Qatar
Toothbrush tree (Salvadora persica) in old garden in a village of Al Mashrab in area of Ras Laffan Farms. Northern Qatar, October 10, 2015Unnamed Road, Qatar
Toothbrush tree (Salvadora persica) on a fence of Sheikh Hamad Bin Khalid Bin Hamad Al-Thani Palace at Al Rayyan Al Jadeed Street, near Huwar Street (Al Attiya) Roundabout. Doha, Qatar, October 18, 2015Al Rayyan Al Jadeed St, Doha, Qatar
Toothbrush tree (Salvadora persica) hanging from a fence of Sheikh Hamad Bin Khalid Bin Hamad Al-Thani Palace at Al Rayyan Al Jadeed Street, near Huwar Street (Al Attiya) Roundabout. Doha, Qatar, October 18, 2015Al Rayyan Al Jadeed St, Doha, Qatar
Toothbrush trees (Salvadora persica) in a parched garden in Trainah. Southern Qatar, October 30, 2015Unnamed Road, Mazra`at Turayna, Qatar
Toothbrush tree (Salvadora persica) in abandoned gardens in area of Ras Laffan farms. North-eastern Qatar, February 19, 2016Unnamed Road, Qatar
Creeping toothbrush tree (Salvadora persica) in abandoned gardens in area of Ras Laffan farms. North-eastern Qatar, February 19, 2016Unnamed Road, Qatar
Branch of toothbrush tree (Salvadora persica) with fruits taken from Rawdat Al Faras Research Station (RAFRS) near Al Zubara Road. Qatar, April 29, 2016Observations of Salvadora persica in Qatar reveal its presence in various locations, including Doha and rural areas. The plant was found growing near Souq Al Ali, Al Luqta area, and Ras Laffan Farms, as well as in old gardens and abandoned farms. It was also spotted on fences and in parched gardens, indicating its ability to thrive in different environments. The tree was observed with flowers and fruits at various times of the year, including March and April. In some cases, the tree was seen hanging from fences or creeping on the ground, showcasing its adaptability. The observations were made over a period of time, from March 2015 to April 2016, and provide insight into the plant's growth habits and distribution in Qatar.
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QNHG (Qatar Natural History Group) and associated people, for a possibility to participate in their field excursions and to learn about local nature.