What is Wet Cupping Therapy (Hijama)?
Wet cupping therapy, commonly known among the public as hijama, is a traditional and complementary medicine (GETAT) application based on applying controlled negative pressure (vacuum) to specific body regions with cups, followed by superficial skin scratches to draw a small amount of capillary blood.
Unlike dry cupping application, since skin integrity is breached in a controlled manner in wet cupping, the procedure must strictly be performed in a sterile clinical environment, under a physician's supervision, and using single-use materials. It should not be viewed as a substitute for modern medicine; it should be considered as a supportive approach in selected cases.
Scientific Mechanisms of Action
In the scientific literature, the effects of wet cupping therapy are examined through the following physiological mechanisms:
- Increased Regional Blood Circulation: Negative pressure stimulates microcirculation and affects tissue perfusion.
- Neuromodulation and Pain Threshold: Stimulation of mechanoreceptors in the skin may contribute to modulating pain perception via the nervous system.
- Myofascial Release: It can help resolve spasms in muscle and fascia layers and provide a feeling of relief.
In Which Situations Can It Be Considered?
- Muscle tension and regional musculoskeletal pains,
- Chronic stiffness and tightness sensation in the neck, back, and lower back regions,
- Conditions accompanied by intense stress, muscle spasm, and physical fatigue,
- Complementary medicine protocols deemed appropriate by the physician.
To Whom Is It Not Applied (Contraindications)?
Wet cupping therapy is strictly not applied or requires special medical evaluation in the following situations:
- Bleeding disorders (hemophilia, etc.), advanced anemia, and low platelet count,
- Use of blood-thinning (anticoagulant) medications,
- Presence of active infection, eczema, wound, or varicose veins in the application area,
- Uncontrolled diabetes, prominent immunosuppression, presence of a pacemaker, or pregnancy,
- Those with severe hypotension (low blood pressure) and a history of vasovagal fainting.
Things to Consider Before and After the Application
Before the procedure, medical history should be shared with the physician, and fasting/fed status should be adjusted according to the physician's advice. After the application, the area should be kept clean and dry; hot showers, Turkish baths, saunas, sea/pools, and heavy sports should be avoided for the first 24 hours. Scratches on the skin should not be scratched and scabs should not be picked.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is hijama a painful procedure?
During the procedure, a mild vacuum tension and a short-term stinging sensation due to superficial scratches may be experienced. Since the scratches are very superficial, they do not cause significant pain.
Will there be any scars?
When performed with proper technique and superficial micro-incisions, scars usually disappear within a few weeks through the skin's natural healing process.
Legal Disclaimer: All information on this page has been prepared for general informational purposes only; it does not carry diagnostic and therapeutic characteristics. Please consult your physician for your health problems, examination, diagnosis, and the suitability of your treatment processes.
This content has been translated using artificial intelligence technology.