The Amber Stone in the Arab Scientific Heritage from the Umayyad Era to the End of the Mamluk Era (41- 923 AH/ 662-1517AD): A Cultural Historical Study
VOLUME 23, 2026
The Role of Targeted Infra-popliteal Endovascular Angioplasty to Treat Diabetic Foot Ulcers Using the Angiosome Model: A Systematic Review
VOLUME 6, 2023
Abstract
This study sheds light on the history of amber. According to this study a transparent, fossilized plant resin, typically yellow in color, formed millions of years ago through the petrification of secretions from ancient coniferous trees. The primary significance amber lies in its role as a fossil record capable of preserving entire organisms within its matrix. Amber possesses the unique property of attracting light objects such as straw when rubbed; a phenomenon from which the science of electricity originated.
The study devotes considerable attention to the contributions of Arab and Muslim scholars regarding the understanding of amber. Ibn al-Nafīs, for instance, critiqued errors found in translations of Greek texts that conflated amber with the gum of the Roman poplar tree. Furthermore, Ibn Fadl Allah al-Umari drew attention to an error made by earlier translators, who erroneously attributed the origin of amber to the poplar tree rather than to the Roman walnut. Ibn Sahl al-Tabari used amber to treat cardiac weakness and to staunch blood flow; Thābit Ibn Qurra applied it as an astringent for abrasions; and Abu Bakr al-Rāzi prescribed it for gastric ulcers and heart palpitations. Ibn Sīnā and Ibn al-Nafīs emphasized its properties in drying up excess bodily fluids, constricting blood vessels to halt bleeding, and preventing fluid accumulation within the body.
Lecture in accounting. University of Basrah, College of Administration and Economics, Department of Accounting.