Hijama (Wet Cupping)
Hijama is a traditional therapeutic procedure that uses suction and controlled micro incisions to remove stagnant blood and toxins from the body. This is for individuals seeking natural relief from chronic pain, inflammation, or those interested in Prophetic (Sunnah) medicine.
What is Hijama?
Hijama is a form of wet cupping therapy that involves creating a vacuum on specific points of the skin to draw out “Causative Pathological Substances” (CPS) through small, superficial scratches.
Derived from the Arabic word hajm (meaning “to suck”), it is a regulated medical practice used to stimulate blood circulation and enhance the body’s natural detoxification pathways.
Who This Is For:
This therapy is designed for individuals seeking holistic management of physical and mental health conditions. Common use cases include.
- Chronic Pain Patients: Those suffering from migraines, lower back pain, or fibromyalgia.
- Athletes: Individuals looking to speed up muscle recovery and reduce lactic acid buildup.
- Wellness Seekers: People interested in “detoxing” or improving their immune system response.
- Sunnah Adherents: Those following the traditional health practices of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH).
How Hijama Works: The Science of Suction
Hijama functions through a three-step mechanical process that triggers a systemic physiological response.
The Vacuum Effect
A cup is placed on the skin, and a vacuum is created using a manual pump or fire. This suction pulls the skin and underlying muscle layer upward, which increases blood flow to the area and expands the capillaries.
Decompression and Filtration
The pressure helps separate “old” or stagnant blood cells and interstitial fluids from healthy circulation. This process targets the “stagnation” often cited as the root cause of localized pain.
Removal of Pathological Substances
Micro incisions are made on the top layer of the skin (epidermis). The vacuum is reapplied, drawing out a small amount of fluid containing metabolic waste, toxins, and inflammatory mediators.
The Hijama Procedure (The Ritual)
The Step-by-Step Hijama Process.
A standard clinical session lasts between 30 and 45 minutes. Here is what happens during a professional treatment.
- Consultation: The practitioner assesses your medical history and identifies the specific points (such as Al-Kahil on the upper back) for treatment.
- Primary Suction: Cups are placed on the skin for 3–5 minutes to numb the area and draw blood to the surface.
- Scarification: The cups are removed, and a sterile surgical blade is used to make light, painless scratches on the skin.
- Secondary Suction: The cups are reapplied to extract the stagnant fluid.
- Cleaning & Dressing: The area is disinfected with an antiseptic, and soothing oils (like black seed or olive oil) are often applied.
Primary Health Benefits
Patients typically choose Hijama to achieve specific health benchmarks.
- Pain Management: Significant reduction in tension headaches and musculoskeletal pain.
- Circulatory Health: Improved blood flow and potential reduction in high blood pressure.
- Skin Health: Reduction in inflammatory acne and clearer complexion through detox.
- Mental Wellbeing: A sense of relaxation and reduced symptoms of anxiety or brain fog.
Safety and Considerations
While Hijama is safe for most people, it must be performed by a certified practitioner following strict hygiene protocols.
- Contraindications: You should avoid Hijama if you are pregnant, have severe anemia, use blood-thinning medication, or have an active skin infection.
- Aftercare: It is common to feel a “healing crisis” (slight fatigue) immediately after. You are advised to rest and stay hydrated for 24 hours.
- Marks: The circular marks left by the cups are not bruises; they are transitions of fluid and typically fade within 3–7 days.
Why Choose Wealth of Wellness (WOW)?
1. DHA Approved Clinical Excellence
Wealth of Wellness (WOW) is a DHA (Dubai Health Authority) Approved Wellness Centre. This accreditation ensures that our facility meets the highest standards of safety, hygiene, and medical ethics. Unlike generic wellness centers, our clinical status means your Abhyanga is performed under professional supervision, guaranteeing a therapeutic grade of care.
2. Holistic Environment
At Wealth of Wellness (WOW), a “Holistic Environment” is more than just a physical space; it is a meticulously designed ecosystem where every element from the air you breathe to the therapies you receive is aligned to restore harmony to your Body, Mind, and Soul.
3. Community Benefits & Seamless Access
We are committed to integrating holistic health into the lives of UAE residents through strategic partnerships:
FAZAA & ESAAD: We offer exclusive, preferential rates and specialized wellness packages for all Fazaa and Esaad cardholders.
Insurance Integration: As a DHA-approved center, many of our therapeutic services can be integrated into your healthcare coverage. Our team assists in providing the necessary documentation for insurance claims (please check with your provider for specific plan eligibility).
Why Choose Wealth of Wellness (WOW)?
1. DHA Approved Clinical Excellence
Wealth of Wellness (WOW) is a DHA (Dubai Health Authority) Approved Wellness Centre. This accreditation ensures that our facility meets the highest standards of safety, hygiene, and medical ethics. Unlike generic wellness centers, our clinical status means your Abhyanga is performed under professional supervision, guaranteeing a therapeutic grade of care.
2. Holistic Environment
At Wealth of Wellness (WOW), a “Holistic Environment” is more than just a physical space; it is a meticulously designed ecosystem where every element from the air you breathe to the therapies you receive is aligned to restore harmony to your Body, Mind, and Soul.
3. Community Benefits & Seamless Access
We are committed to integrating holistic health into the lives of UAE residents through strategic partnerships:
FAZAA & ESAAD: We offer exclusive, preferential rates and specialized wellness packages for all Fazaa and Esaad cardholders.
Insurance Integration: As a DHA-approved center, many of our therapeutic services can be integrated into your healthcare coverage. Our team assists in providing the necessary documentation for insurance claims (please check with your provider for specific plan eligibility).
Begin Your Healing Journey Today
Service: Hijama (Wet Cupping)
Duration: 45 Minutes
Energy Exchange: AED 350
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Hijama painful?
Most patients describe the sensation as a light pinch or a scratching feeling. The suction itself acts as a natural analgesic (numbing agent) before the incisions are made.
How often should I get Hijama done?
For general wellness, once every 3–6 months is common. For chronic conditions like migraines, a practitioner may suggest a localized plan of three sessions spaced one month apart.
What is the difference between Hijama and Dry Cupping?
Dry cupping uses suction only to move blood and relieve muscle tension. Hijama (Wet Cupping) includes the additional step of removing stagnant fluid from the body for a deeper detox effect.
