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Wet Cupping

A Clear Guide to the History, Process, and Science Behind This Therapy

Wet cupping (also known as Hijama) is a traditional therapeutic technique with roots in ancient and Islamic medicine. While the practice dates back thousands of years, it has seen a modern resurgence as a complementary treatment for certain health concerns, particularly musculoskeletal pain and tension.

In this article, we’ll explain what Hijama is, where it comes from, how it’s performed, and what current research says about its potential benefits and safety.

What Is Wet Cupping?

Wet cupping is a form of therapy that involves creating suction on the skin using specialised cups, followed by small, superficial incisions that allow a small amount of blood to be drawn out. The idea is to promote circulation, remove stagnated fluids, and support the body’s natural healing response.

It is called wet cupping because it involves light bloodletting, unlike dry cupping, which only uses suction.

A Brief History of Hijama

  • Ancient origins: Cupping was practiced by ancient Egyptians, Chinese healers, and Greek physicians. Depictions of cupping instruments can be found on Egyptian inscriptions dating back to the Ptolemaic period.

  • Islamic tradition: The practice became widely known in the Islamic world and is referenced in the sayings of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), who reportedly recommended it as a healing method.

  • Global revival: While interest in cupping declined with the rise of modern medicine, it has regained popularity in many parts of the world, including the Middle East, Southeast Asia, the UK, and now increasingly in Western countries as a complementary therapy.

What Does Science Say?

Research into wet cupping is ongoing. While it has not been fully validated by modern medicine as a cure for disease, some studies suggest that it may offer certain benefits:

Potential Benefits Supported by Evidence:

  • Relief from chronic and musculoskeletal pain

    • A 2020 systematic review of randomised trials found that wet cupping may provide short-term pain relief, especially for back, neck, and joint pain.

  • Reduction in migraine and tension-type headaches

  • Improved sense of physical well-being

    • Some patients report a feeling of lightness, reduced stiffness, and better sleep following treatment. This is possibly due to localised circulation effects.

🔎 Note: These benefits are generally short-term (lasting a few days to a few weeks) and should be seen as supportive, not curative.

Is Wet Cupping Safe?

When performed by a trained and hygienic practitioner, wet cupping is generally safe. Minor side effects may include:

  • Mild bruising or circular marks (temporary)

  • Slight discomfort during or after treatment

To ensure safety:

  • Sterile tools and equipment should always be used

  • Proper wound care and hygiene protocols should be followed

  • If you have clotting disorders, active infections, or open wounds in the treatment area, cupping should be AVOIDED.

How the Hijama Procedure Works

Here’s what a typical session looks like:

  1. Consultation
    A discussion of your health history, symptoms, and goals for treatment.

  2. Sterilisation
    The skin is cleaned thoroughly with antiseptic.

  3. Application of Cups
    A vacuum is created (using a pump) to draw the skin gently upward into the cup. Cups stay on the skin for 3–5 minutes.

  4. Tiny Incisions
    After removing the cups, small, shallow scratches are made using a sterile blade.

  5. Second Suction
    The cups are reapplied to draw out a small amount of blood.

  6. Cleaning & Aftercare
    The area is cleaned again and advise is given around avoiding strenuous activity and keeping the area clean for 24–48 hours.

What to Expect After a Session

  • You may feel more relaxed, lighter, or physically less tense.

  • Mild soreness or bruising is common and should resolve within a few days.

  • Drinking water and resting is recommended to support your body’s recovery.

Common Questions

Is it painful?
Most clients describe the feeling as mild to moderately uncomfortable, but tolerable. The incisions are very shallow and heal quickly.

How often should I get Hijama?
This depends on your condition and goals. Some people benefit from monthly sessions, while others prefer treatment once every few months or for specific concerns.

Can anyone receive Hijama?
It’s suitable for most healthy adults. However, we do not recommend it for:

  • People with bleeding disorders

  • Those taking blood thinners

  • Pregnant individuals (especially early or late-term)

  • People with certain skin conditions or infections in the treatment area

sound good?

If wet cupping (hijama) sounds like something you need, then why not go ahead and book a session. You can book it as a standalone service or as part of one of our signature packages.
book a session

References

  1. Okmi, Ezzuddin A.; Al-Raddadi, Rajaa M.1; Al Jaouni, Soad K.2. Effects of wet cupping on chronic pain: A retrospective study. Imam Journal of Applied Sciences 5(2):p 47-52, Jul–Dec 2020. | DOI: 10.4103/ijas.ijas_11_20
    https://journals.lww.com/ijas/fulltext/2020/05020/effects_of_wet_cupping_on_chronic_pain__a.1.aspx

  2. Al Jaouni SK, El-Fiky EA, Mourad SA, Ibrahim NK, Kaki AM, Rohaiem SM, Qari MH, Tabsh LM, Aljawhari AA. The effect of wet cupping on quality of life of adult patients with chronic medical conditions in King Abdulaziz University Hospital. Saudi Med J. 2017 Jan;38(1):53-62. doi: 10.15537/smj.2017.1.15154. PMID: 28042631; PMCID: PMC5278066.
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5278066/

  3. Cramer H, Klose P, Teut M, Rotter G, Ortiz M, Anheyer D, Linde K, Brinkhaus B. Cupping for Patients With Chronic Pain: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. J Pain. 2020 Sep-Oct;21(9-10):943-956. doi: 10.1016/j.jpain.2020.01.002. Epub 2020 Jan 23. PMID: 31982686
    https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31982686/

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