Your Questions Answered
Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about Hijama, cupping therapy, and our treatments.
About the Treatments
What is Hijama (wet cupping)?
Hijama is a traditional therapeutic treatment that involves placing suction cups on the skin, making small superficial incisions, and reapplying cups to draw out stagnant blood. It's been practised for thousands of years and is specifically endorsed in Islamic medicine. It addresses chronic pain, fatigue, headaches, skin conditions, and much more.
What is dry cupping?
Dry cupping uses suction cups to create negative pressure on the skin without any incisions. The lifting and decompressive effect improves circulation, releases muscle tension, and promotes relaxation. It's non-invasive and suitable for most people.
What conditions can cupping treat?
Cupping is used for a wide range of conditions including back pain, neck pain, sciatica, migraines, fibromyalgia, anxiety, fatigue, sports injuries, hormonal issues, skin conditions, and general detoxification. Browse our conditions page for the full list.
How does cupping actually work?
Cupping creates negative pressure that lifts soft tissue, dramatically increases local blood flow (by 400-500% above baseline), stimulates the lymphatic system, and releases fascial restrictions. For Hijama, the additional mechanism is drawing out older, more metabolite-laden blood and stimulating fresh blood production.
Safety & Suitability
Is Hijama safe?
When performed by a qualified, certified practitioner using sterile single-use equipment, Hijama is very safe. Our practitioners follow strict clinical hygiene protocols and conduct a thorough health consultation before every session to identify any contraindications.
Who should NOT have Hijama?
Hijama is contraindicated for: pregnant women (especially first trimester), people on blood thinners (warfarin, apixaban), those with active skin infections or open wounds in the treatment area, people with haemophilia or severe clotting disorders, and those with very low blood pressure. Some conditions require medical clearance first.
Can children have cupping?
Dry cupping can be appropriate for older children (12+) with parental consent and for specific conditions. Wet Hijama is generally not recommended for children under 16. We assess each case individually.
I'm on medication — is cupping safe?
Most medications are compatible with cupping. However, blood-thinning medications (aspirin in therapeutic doses, warfarin, new oral anticoagulants) require special consideration. Always disclose all medications at your consultation.
Preparation & Aftercare
How do I prepare for my Hijama session?
In the 1–3 days before: stay well hydrated, eat a clean diet, avoid blood-thinning medications (unless prescribed). On the day: eat a light meal 2–3 hours before, wear loose comfortable clothing, don't exercise. Tell your practitioner about all medications and health conditions.
What happens after treatment?
Most people feel deeply relaxed and many sleep exceptionally well the night after treatment. You may experience temporary fatigue for 24 hours as your body processes the treatment. Energy improvement is typically noticed within 24–72 hours.
What are the marks left after cupping?
The circular marks after cupping are not bruises — they're blood drawn to the surface by the suction. Their colour (pink, red, dark red, purple) indicates the level of stagnation in that area. They typically fade within 5–10 days.
What should I do after treatment?
Rest for the remainder of the day. Keep the treated areas covered and warm. Avoid cold showers, exercise, and heavy meals for 24 hours. Drink plenty of water and eat nourishing foods. Avoid the treated areas getting wet for at least 24 hours.
Pricing & Booking
How much does Hijama cost?
Hijama (wet cupping) sessions start from £60. Other treatments are priced on enquiry. We believe in transparent pricing — your full session cost will be confirmed before you book.
How do I book?
Call or WhatsApp us on 07523 776422. We prefer to speak directly with new clients to ensure we recommend the right treatment and can answer any questions before you arrive.
How many sessions will I need?
This depends entirely on your condition. Acute conditions often respond in 1–3 sessions. Chronic conditions typically require a course of 4–6 sessions. For Sunnah wellness practice, 2–3 sessions per year is common. We'll give you an honest assessment at your consultation.
Do you offer home visits?
We are a clinic-based service only. All treatments are carried out at our premises — clients are welcome to visit us at 9 Tavistock Road.
Still Have Questions?
Call or WhatsApp us and we'll answer any questions personally before you book.