ALULA — Blossoming in the heart of AlUla, the Arak tree stands as a symbol of history, culture, and sanctity, and serves as the primary source of the traditional miswak toothbrush. **media[2674751]** Cultivated in Al-Arak village, the Arak tree (Salvadora persica) is valued not only for its oral health benefits and its connection to the Prophet Muhammad, peace be upon him — the use of the miswak is a sunna — but also for its leaves and fruit, which have long been used in traditional medicine. **media[2674748]** Local expert Mohammed Al-Rashoudi noted that the tree is deeply rooted in the region’s identity. Ancient inscriptions confirm its long presence in the area, and its abundance once provided an important source of livelihood for local communities. **media[2674749]** Today, the local community and the Royal Commission for AlUla are working together to preserve these native plants, helping ensure the sustainability of this desert-adapted species, which remains an essential part of AlUla’s environmental and cultural heritage.
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