What is Hijama? A Complete Guide to Wet Cupping Therapy

Hijama — from the Arabic word meaning "to suck" — is a form of wet cupping therapy that has been practised for thousands of years across Islamic, Chinese, and Greek medical traditions. The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) described it as "the best of your remedies," and modern research is increasingly validating what traditional healers have known for millennia.

How Hijama Works

The treatment involves three stages. First, glass or silicone cups are placed on the skin and suction is created — either with a pump or by heating the air inside the cup. This negative pressure draws blood to the surface. Second, the practitioner makes small, superficial incisions on the skin (typically 1–2mm deep). Third, cups are reapplied to draw out the stagnant blood that has collected just below the surface.

What Does It Treat?

Hijama has been used traditionally to treat a vast range of conditions including back pain, headaches, migraines, sciatica, fatigue, stress, high blood pressure, skin conditions, fertility issues, and as a general detoxification and wellness treatment. Research literature is growing to support many of these traditional claims.

Is It Safe?

When performed by a qualified, certified practitioner using sterile single-use equipment, Hijama is very safe. At our clinic, we follow strict hygiene protocols and use only sterile disposable equipment for every session.

What to Expect After Treatment

You'll typically see circular marks where the cups were applied — these are not bruises but rather an extravasation of blood drawn to the surface. They usually fade within 5–10 days. Most clients report feeling deeply relaxed, sleeping better, and noticing improved energy levels within 24–72 hours of treatment.