Is it permissible for a woman observing her iddah to go out during the day for recreation? What is the ruling on her going out for a stroll without feeling distressed? Does the ruling differ based on the proximity or time of the place? Is it permissible for her to consume saffron and rosewater, and to use shampoo containing olive oil?

The Maliki and Hanbali jurists permitted a woman observing iddah (definition) (waiting period) due to death or divorce to go out during the day to attend to her needs, such as buying or selling. However, they did not permit her to go out at night except for necessity. She is also allowed to go out during the day for companionship if she feels distressed, but she is not permitted to go out merely for recreation. It is forbidden for a woman in iddah to use saffron and rosewater as long as their fragrance remains, in which she is similar to someone in a state of ihram (definition). As for things that have pleasant scents but are not perfumes, such as mint or olive oil shampoo free from perfume, there is no harm in using them.