My mum uses a herbal medicine which has some oyster shell. Is it permissible to use this?

In the name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful

Assalaamu `alaykum waRahmatullahi Wabarakatuh

 It is impermissible to consume any type of animal that lives in the water except the fish. Oysters are not classified as fish according to the Jurists; therefore, if medications containing oyster are for consumption, it will not be permissible. [Ref: Raddul-Mukhtaar vol. 6 pg. 306. H.M. Saeed].

 However, if there is no alternative medication and an experienced Muslim doctor or the Muslim herbalist advises that your mother is in need of this medication; such medication will then be permissible to use.

And Allah Ta'ala Knows Best

Wassalamu Alaykum

Ml. Mohammad Ashhad bin Said

Correspondence Iftaa Student, Mauritius

Checked and Approved by:

Mufti Ebrahim Desai
Darul Iftaa