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Cupping therapy (wet or dry) is an ancient method used in the treatment of many medical conditions.
Dry cupping involves the pulling of dry skin, whereas wet cupping, also known as hijama, involves making tiny cuts on the surface of the skin by a trained professional, after which toxic blood is drawn out by using suction from the cups. (1)
Some of the hypothesized benefits of hijama include: (2)
- Reducing pain and improving biochemical conditions of the skin
- Relaxing the muscles and increasing blood circulation
- Improving the immune responses and balancing hormones
- Removing toxins from the body including heavy metals
Since cupping therapy involves changes in the blood, tissues, and organs, certain precautions need to be taken following the procedure.
Foods to Avoid After Hijama Therapy
Refrain from consuming these foods after hijama therapy.
1. Avoid high-sugar beverages
Hijama involves draining excess fluid from the body; (2) thus, it is necessary to hydrate the body well.
Since high-sugar beverages such as packaged fruit juices and soft drinks do not aid the body in long-term hydration and can worsen the symptoms associated with dehydration, (3) it is better to avoid them and drink plenty of water instead following a hijama session.
2. Avoid red meat and dairy products
For a day after the treatment, avoid the consumption of red meat (including processed foods) and dairy products as these may slow down the body’s response to the treatment. (4)
3. Avoid caffeine
Caffeine has a diuretic effect on the body, (5) which may result in fluid loss. Since hijama causes fluid loss from the blood, (2) it is better to avoid caffeine.
Other Precautions to Take After Hijama Treatment
Apart from those mentioned above, you must adhere to these additional precautions after getting hijama treatment.
1. Avoid hot showers, saunas, and bath
Hot water is discouraged in wound management as it can cause drying and delay healing. (6) Since hijama involves lacerating to induce bleeding, it is better to avoid hot showers and baths.
2. Avoid strenuous activity
Strenuous exercises can delay wound healing, so it is recommended to take some rest and heal.
Most-Asked Questions
What activities are safe after hijama?
Stretching, yoga, and walking are activities that are safe after a session of hijama.
When can I shower after hijama?
Most precautions must be exercised for 12–24 hours after a hijama session.
What foods are best consumed after hijama?
Soft and easy-to-digest foods such as rice and lentils, vegetables, and chicken are all suitable to eat after hijama.
Final Word
Hijama, also called a prophetic method of healing, is a traditional technique that has several health benefits for the body. Though the exact mechanism by which it benefits the body is still unknown, it is known to restore balance and heal the body from within.
Since hijama involves cutting the skin to expel blood, there are some precautions you must practice for up to 24 hours after the session. This involves avoiding red meat, dairy, alcohol, caffeine, and high-sugar beverages.
Other things to avoid to hasten healing include avoiding a hot water bath or shower and strenuous activity.
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