Is it permissible to take the leaves of trees in the sacred precinct (Haram)?
Chapter on What the Muhrim Must Avoid and What is Permissible for Him
Al-Mughni
Book of Hajj
Primary text
Taking the leaves of trees in the sacred precinct is forbidden. The basis for this ruling is the statement of the Prophet, peace be upon him: "He should not strike its thorns, nor cut its trees," reported by Muslim. Furthermore, anything whose taking is prohibited is prohibited in its entirety, analogous to the feathers of a bird. The argument that taking the leaves does not cause harm is invalid, as it weakens the tree and may lead to its destruction.
Supporting text
Imam Shafi'i permits taking the leaves because it does not cause harm. Atta permitted taking the leaves of the *sanna* plant (a type of tree/bush) for use as a laxative, provided the leaves are not pulled from their origin. Amr ibn Dinar also permitted it.