Dear sisters, today I had my first hijama session. I had heard so much about the benefits of this treatment that, when given an opportunity, I decided to try it out myself.
Hijama, also known as wet cupping, is ‘the process of using a vacuum at different points on the body but with incisions in order to remove ‘harmful’ blood which lies just beneath the surface of the skin.’ It should only be administered by a qualified therapist.
As can be expected, I was nervous about having the procedure done but by anxiety was put to rest when I was reassured that the therapist applying the treatment, was a bona fide, qualified hijama administrator with many years of experience. Khadija had received her specialist training and qualification from The Cupping Clinic and has worked in the field for over seven years: currently at the Abu Halima Centre in Hanwell.
Before the session, I was informed about precautions. This procedure is not suitable for sisters who are pregnant, diabetic or taking medication for other ailments. It is advisable not to have a heavy meal prior to your appointment and you should be in a state of general good health. Always check in advance to avoid being refused on the day. You should not have had a heavy meal before your appointment and it is recommended that you have an empty stomach for optimal results. It is also encouraged to undertake this treatment on the ‘Sunnah days’, which are the 17th, 19th or 21st days of the lunar month.
I was told to sit on the edge of a chair and try to relax. The therapist first cleaned the base of my neck and on either side with an antiseptic wipe, then she proceeded to apply three suction cups at these points. Skilled practitioners use their knowledge of acupressure points to decide the most suitable location for the cupping. I was being treated with three cups for general health. A particular area of the body may be cupped for specific problems. As the air was drawn out of the cups, it felt as if my skin was being compressed: like the sensation when blood pressure is checked . I tried to remain calm as she removed the cups then using a sharp sterile instrument she made small tears in my skin. It was irritating but little more than pin pricks. It was a good thing that I couldn’t actually see her doing it! She replaced the cups and blood was drawn into the vessels. The therapist tapped the cups now and then to facilitate the blood flow. The cups were kept in place for a few minutes – this depends on the health and need of the individual – to remove the ‘bad blood’. The cups were then carefully removed, the area was cleaned and olive oil was applied to moisturise the skin.
Khadija, the lovely practitioner, told me that one of the best benefits of hijama was the removal of toxins from the blood, and ideally it should be administered twice a year. Toxins can build up in the blood stream as a result of poor diet, smoking or a sedentary lifestyle. Chemicals also accumulate in our bodies from our love of processed foods and the artificial additives they contain, Those who are suffering from migraine or old injuries would benefit from more frequent applications.
Her years of experience have made her skilful in not only performing hijama but also in discerning the quality of the blood being removed, which in turn indicates the health of the person. I was embarrassed to hear from her that I needed to drink more water and follow a healthy, balanced diet. If the colour and/or viscosity of my blood is testament to my state of health then I dread to think what the story the picture of my internal organs would tell. I thanked her for her advice and promised that I would try to adopt a more healthy lifestyle, insha’Allah.
The rest of the day I had a slight temperature and felt somewhat weak and tired. I was told that this was expected. It is wise to follow other precautions to avoid side effects: heavy physical activity soon after a session may result in the body going into shock and this may result in a fever. I was advised against having a shower until the next day and not eating a full meal for a couple of hours.
Overall, I had a good experience of my first hijama session. The therapist was highly trained and experienced, she put me at ease and was ready to answer any concerns I had. Health and safety guidelines were followed, and sincere advice was given for my well-being.
The most important fact to acknowledge is that this a sunnah practise. Prophet Mohammad (peace be upon him) received the treatment himself and advised his followers to do so.There are a number of ahadith (traditions of the noble Prophet) which mention the benefits of hijama:
“Indeed in cupping (hijama) there is a cure.” [reported by Jaabir ibn Abdullah (ra) in Saheeh Muslim (5706)].
“Indeed the best of remedies you have is cupping (hijama)…” [reported by Anas ibn Maalik (ra) in Saheeh al-Bukhaaree (5371)].
“I did not pass by an angel from the angels on the night journey except that they all said to me: Upon you is cupping (hijama), O Muhammad.” [reported by Abdullah ibn Abbas (ra) in Saheeh Sunan ibn Maajah (3477)].
In the narration reported by Abdullah ibn Mas’ud (ra) the angels said, “Oh Muhammad, order your Ummah (nation) with cupping (hijama).” [Saheeh Sunan Tirmidhee (3479)].
In conclusion, hijama has many benefits, and by being a sunnah practise, you will be rewarded for obtaining this treatment and it will increase your barakah, insha’Allah. However, before deciding on the procedure, check your suitability to undertake it and check the standards of the clinic and therapist who will be performing the hijama.