Anas ibn Maalik (r) reported that the Messenger (Peace Be Upon Him) said,
“Indeed the best of remedies you have is Hijama (Cupping)…” Saheeh al-Bukhaaree (5371).
Hijama is practiced and held in the highest regards by Muslims, since the Quran has compelled them to: “..Take what the Messenger (PBUH) gives you and abstain from what he forbids you..” [59:7]
Cupping is an ancient healing therapy that some people use to ease pain. A provider places cups on your back, stomach, arms, legs or other parts of your body. Inside the cup, a vacuum or suction force pulls skin upward.
Cupping is a form of traditional Chinese and Middle Eastern medicine. People have practiced cupping therapy for thousands of years.
What does cupping treat?
People mostly use cupping to relieve conditions that cause pain. Some people say it also helps with chronic (ongoing) health issues. Cupping may ease symptoms of: Arthritis, including rheumatoid arthritis Back pain, neck pain, knee pain and shoulder pain Breathing problems, such as asthma Carpal tunnel syndrome Gastrointestinal disorders, such as irritable bowel disease (IBD) Headaches and migraines High blood pressure (hypertension) Stress, Anxiety & Depression Allergies Skin Problems (acne, psoriasis, eczema etc)
How is cupping performed?
There are different ways to perform cupping. The steps vary slightly depending on the chosen method. Your provider will leave the cups in place for several minutes. Some treatments involve briefly moving the cups to stretch and massage the area.
Depending on the treatment, your provider may place multiple cups on your skin. Cupping methods include:
Dry: Your provider heats the inside of each cup — typically with an alcohol-soaked cotton ball that is set aflame. The heat sends oxygen out of the cup, creating a vacuum. Some providers use a suction device to remove air from cups. Once placed on your skin, the vacuum force pulls skin up into the cup.
Wet: Your provider uses a needle to lightly puncture your skin before, and sometimes after, cupping. Toxins leave the body through the puncture wounds during the cupping procedure.