Understanding Hijama (Wet Cupping)
- Akhtar
- Dec 6, 2024
- 3 min read
Updated: Feb 15
What is Hijama therapy?
Hijama therapy, also known as wet cupping, is a minor incision on the skin's upper layer. It is a form of bloodletting believed to remove harmful toxins from the body and improve blood circulation. Although this practice has resurfaced in the Western world, it dates back roughly 5,000 years to Babylon and Ancient Egypt and is still widely practised in the Middle East and Southeast Asia.
This treatment is more commonly performed routinely to promote longevity and preventive measures, and it can also relieve symptoms.

How is hijama done?
The treatment involves applying negative pressure by air suction to a cup, creating a vacuum that draws the toxins to the skin's surface. The next step is making small superficial incisions to excrete the toxins out of the body by repeating the initial stage. Four rounds should take place on each placement of the cup.
The benefits of Hijama cupping are not related to the amount of blood drawn but to the number of toxins extracted. If blood is being drawn, an overall healthy session would have all the cups start and finish simultaneously.
When to have hijama?
Traditional practice occurs during the third week of the lunar calendar. During this period, mental stress is believed to elevate, leading to the tendency for individuals to fall out of standard sleeping patterns and behaviours.
Some studies have reviewed cases of animal behaviour and human crimes. This has supported the police in increasing surveillance and CCTV monitoring during this period, including the national health services admitting more patients. However, more research is required to study this field in greater detail, and comparing past events to the present day would be essential.
Who can benefit from hijama?
The apparent benefit of cupping is the instant relief of pain and relaxation it provides by easing stiff tendons and muscles while removing congested blood. For example, if cupping is applied to the joints, the blood flow to the joints increases, promoting recovery.
Cupping can increase appetite, strengthen the stomach and digestion, improve bile flow and metabolism, relieve constipation, and promote regularity of the bowels.
Cupping has a dramatic detoxifying effect on the skin and circulatory system. Cupping enhances the cleansing and removal of toxins by increasing the flow of blood and plasma through the veins and arteries. It also improves blood circulation and the lymphatic system.
Listing a few of the many benefits of hijama, some supported by clinical research:
Eases chronic pain by reducing inflammation
General muscle soreness and tension
Improves blood circulation
Suppresses cough and asthma
Draining excess fluids
Boosts immune function
Monitoring blood pressure levels
Levels of diabetes and cholesterol
Mental well-being levels of mood and sleep
Preparation for Hijama
Fast for two hours before the session, drinking plain liquids, water, tea, and coffee without added sweeteners. Shower before you come and wait at least 24 hours after the treatment to shower. Wear comfortable clothing, avoiding wool material that touches the skin.
Please let the therapist know if you're taking blood thinner medications.
Summary
Though cupping has been used with little and limited research, the practice has lasted for thousands of years. Hijama traditionally should be used as a preventive measure and not limited to urgent means of obtaining results as a magical solution based on cultural beliefs.
Akhtar (SAC. Dip), Lead Clinical Sports Therapist