Hijama (Cupping Therapy) in Islam: Sunnah and Science

Introduction

Hijama, also known as cupping therapy, is a holistic healing practice that dates back thousands of years. In the Islamic tradition, it holds a special status because it was not only recommended by the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ but also practiced by him. Today, modern science has begun to explore and validate many of the health benefits associated with Hijama. This article explores the spiritual and scientific dimensions of this remarkable therapy.

What is Hijama?

Hijama is a form of alternative medicine in which cups are placed on the skin to create suction. The method involves drawing out small amounts of blood from specific points on the body. There are two types:

• Dry cupping – suction only, no bleeding.

• Wet cupping (Hijama) – suction followed by small incisions to remove “stagnant” or harmful blood.

Hijama in the Sunnah

The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ strongly recommended cupping, and multiple hadiths highlight its virtue and benefits:

“..The best medicines you may treat yourselves with are cupping and sea incense..”
(Sahih al-Bukhari 5696)

Narrated Abu Hurayrah:

The Prophet (ﷺ) said: If anyone has himself cupped on the 17th, 19th and 21st it will be a remedy for every disease.

(Sunan Abi Dawud 3861)

These narrations show that Hijama is not just a health practice but a Sunnah of the Prophet ﷺ, especially when done on specific lunar days.

Spiritual Benefits of Hijama

1. Following the Sunnah – Practicing Hijama with the intention of following the Prophet’s ﷺ guidance earns reward.

2. Spiritual cleansing – Many believe it removes not just physical toxins but spiritual negativity.

3. Protection from magic and jinn – Some scholars have mentioned its effect in spiritual protection, though this is a debated matter.

   
   

Scientific Perspective on Hijama

How It Works

Cupping is believed by its proponents to support the body’s natural healing processes. Traditionally used to ease sore muscles, its applications extend far beyond that. According to its advocates—and as highlighted in Harvard Health Publishing—cupping has also been utilized for:

• Relieving back and neck pain
• Treating skin conditions like acne and hives
• Reducing cholesterol levels
• Managing migraines
• Alleviating knee arthritis
• Enhancing immune system function

The therapy is rooted in ancient practices but continues to be explored for its potential health benefits today.

Conditions Hijama May Help Treat

When to Perform Hijama

Islamic tradition emphasizes certain lunar dates for maximum benefit:

• 17th, 19th, and 21st of the Islamic month (especially Monday, Tuesday, or Thursday)

  These dates are recommended based on the practice of the Prophet ﷺ. _{^{(Sunan Abi Dawud 3861)}}

Who Can Perform Hijama?

Hijama should only be performed by:

• A trained and certified professional

• In a clean, sterile environment

• Using proper tools and hygienic methods

Islamically, the practitioner should also understand the Sunnah and etiquettes of the treatment.

Conclusion

Hijama is a profound example of how Islamic tradition and modern science can align. While rooted in Sunnah, it continues to gain credibility in contemporary health practices. Whether you seek its physical healing or spiritual benefits, Hijama is a gift from prophetic wisdom that reminds us of Islam’s holistic view of well-being—where body, mind, and soul are all interconnected.

Read More:

• The Islamic Approach to Healthy Eating
• Healthy Sunnah Foods to Add to Your Diet