All About Hijama
Hijama in the Sunnah
1. Hijama is a cure
The Prophet ﷺ said:
“Indeed the best of remedies you have is cupping (Hijama).“
— (Sahih al-Bukhari 5696; Sahih Muslim 2205)
2. Angels recommended Hijama
The Prophet ﷺ said:
“I did not pass by any group of angels on the night of Isra (Ascension), but they all said to me: ‘O Muhammad! Order your nation to perform cupping (Hijama).‘”
— (Sunan Ibn Majah 3477; Sahih, graded by Al-Albani)
3. Best times for Hijama
The Prophet ﷺ said:
“Whoever gets cupping done on the 17th, 19th or 21st (of the lunar month) will be cured from every disease.“
— (Sunan Abi Dawood 3861; Hasan, graded by Al-Albani)
4. Hijama helps with specific illnesses
The Prophet ﷺ said:
“Cupping is a cure for every disease if done at its right time.”
— (Sahih al-Jami 5690; Sahih, graded by Al-Albani)
Hijama in Modern Science
Modern research finds that Hijamah (cupping) can help with:
- Pain relief (especially for back pain, neck pain, migraines)
- Reducing muscle tension
- Improving blood circulation
- Helping with skin diseases like acne
- Boosting relaxation and possibly reducing anxiety
How does it work?
Doctors believe Hijamah does pull fresh blood into an area (better healing), reduce inflammation, stimulate the body’s natural painkillers (endorphins), release stagnant blood and toxins.
Limitations and concerns
If done by untrained people, it can cause infection, scarring, or anemia (excessive blood loss).
Science says more high-quality studies are needed to prove how well it works long term.
The World Health Organization (WHO) lists cupping under “traditional and complementary medicine” and acknowledges that it has therapeutic potential if practiced safely.
Modern science supports Hijamah for pain and muscle issues.
If done properly, it’s generally safe — and even beneficial — but should not replace conventional treatment for serious illnesses.