1. It’s older than your electric toothbrush. Way older

Before minty toothpaste ads and Bluetooth brushing apps, there was Miswak, a natural twig toothbrush made from the Salvadora persica tree, AKA the “toothbrush tree.” This eco-friendly wonder has been freshening breath and fighting cavities since 7,000 BC. That’s 9,000 years of plaque-fighting street cred.

2. The Bedouins were way ahead of the wellness trend

Desert-dwelling Bedouins were some of the first champions of Miswak. Because they knew how effective it is. It’s antibacterial, naturally whitening, fluoride-rich and refreshingly peppery. Think of it as the original all-in-one oral care kit, with zero packaging waste and a spicy kick. Plus, many swear it sharpens focus and even curbs hunger – basically intermittent fasting’s woody wingman. And with no batteries, no bristles and no toothpaste required, it’s the ultimate zero-waste flex.

3. It thrives in the UAE for the same reason camels do

The Salvadora persica tree is built for the desert. It loves hot, dry, sandy environments and doesn’t need much water, making it perfectly suited to the UAE’s arid climate. It can survive extreme heat, salty soils and drought conditions like a champ. Resilient, sustainable and local? That’s triple bonus points.

4. Expo City Dubai is proudly giving it the spotlight

As a hub for innovation, heritage and sustainability, Expo City Dubai is the proud host of this humble hero. Miswak represents the perfect blend of tradition and eco-conscious living – proof that ancient wisdom has a place in the future.

5. It might be the most untapped wellness market on earth

Sure, we know it cleans teeth. But what about Miswak oil for skincare? Miswak mouth mists? Miswak-inspired eco-chewing sticks for your post-coffee breath? Or even… dare we say, a Miswak mocktail garnish? (It’s 2025. Anything is possible.) With its natural properties and cultural roots, this stick’s got serious global potential. Plus, it looks very cool in a minimalist bamboo holder.

So next time someone asks for a sustainable swap, hand them a Miswak and say: “It’s biodegradable, Bedouin-approved and Expo-backed. You’re welcome.”

Go wild: 10 reasons to let nature take the lead in your UAE garden

10 Surprising ways car-free cities get you moving (and loving life more)

Shaping a water-secure future