Frequently Asked Questions About Hijama & Cupping
Learn about Sunnah days, benefits of Hijama, hadith references, aftercare, safety and what to expect before booking your treatment in East London.
What is Hijama?
Hijama, also known as wet cupping, is a traditional therapy involving controlled suction and small superficial incisions performed in a clean and professional environment.
What is the difference between Hijama and dry cupping?
Dry cupping uses suction only. Wet cupping, commonly called Hijama, involves suction followed by small superficial incisions to draw out a small amount of blood. Both treatments are performed differently and may be recommended for different goals.
Is Hijama painful?
Most clients describe Hijama as mild pressure, tightness or temporary discomfort rather than severe pain. Your practitioner will explain the process before treatment and check your comfort throughout.
How long does a Hijama session take?
Session length depends on the treatment booked and the areas being treated. Most appointments include consultation, treatment preparation, cupping and aftercare guidance.
Do I need to prepare before Hijama?
We usually recommend staying hydrated, avoiding heavy meals immediately before treatment and wearing comfortable clothing. If you have a medical condition or take medication, speak to your GP or healthcare professional before booking.
What are the Sunnah days for Hijama?
Many clients prefer to book Hijama on the 17th, 19th or 21st of the Islamic lunar month, based on narrations about cupping.
Which Islamic dates are commonly recommended?
The commonly mentioned Sunnah days for Hijama are the 17th, 19th and 21st of the Islamic lunar month.
Can I do Hijama outside the Sunnah days?
Yes. Many people book Hijama outside these dates depending on availability, symptoms, recovery goals or personal circumstances. Sunnah days are preferred by many clients, but treatment can still be arranged outside them.
Do you provide Sunnah day appointments?
Yes, when available. Sunnah day appointments can become busy, so we recommend booking early or messaging us on WhatsApp to check availability.
Hadith related to Hijama
Hijama is mentioned in Islamic narrations and is valued by many Muslims as a Sunnah-inspired wellness practice.
Hadith about healing and cupping
In Sahih al-Bukhari, a narration mentions healing in three things, including cupping. This is one of the well-known narrations often referenced when discussing Hijama.
- Reference: Sahih al-Bukhari 5680
Hadith about the 17th, 19th and 21st
A narration in Sunan Abi Dawud mentions cupping on the 17th, 19th and 21st. This is why many clients ask for appointments on these lunar dates.
- Reference: Sunan Abi Dawud 3861
Is Hijama only for Muslims?
No. While Hijama has strong significance for many Muslims due to Sunnah references, cupping therapy is also used by clients from different backgrounds for wellness, recovery and relaxation support.
Potential benefits of Hijama and cupping
Clients commonly book Hijama and cupping for wellness, recovery, relaxation and tension relief. Results vary from person to person.
Muscle Tension
Cupping may help clients feel relief from muscle tightness, stiffness and physical tension.
Recovery Support
Many active clients use cupping as part of their recovery routine after training, sport or physically demanding work.
Relaxation
Some clients find the treatment calming and use it as part of their general wellbeing routine.
Circulation Support
Cupping creates suction on the skin and is commonly associated with increased local blood flow to the treated area.
General Wellness
Hijama is often booked by clients who want to support their overall wellness and feel refreshed.
Sunnah Practice
For Muslim clients, Hijama is also valued as a Sunnah-inspired practice with religious and personal significance.
Symptoms and concerns clients ask about
Hijama is not a guaranteed cure for medical conditions, but clients commonly seek cupping therapy for support with the following concerns.
Pain and tension-related concerns
- Back tension
- Neck and shoulder tightness
- Muscle stiffness
- General body aches
- Sports-related tightness
- Post-training recovery
Wellbeing and lifestyle concerns
- Stress and fatigue
- Feeling sluggish
- Poor sleep patterns
- General wellness maintenance
- Relaxation support
- Feeling physically drained
Other concerns clients ask about
- Head tension
- Migraine support
- Circulation support
- Digestive discomfort support
- Immune system wellness support
- General detox-style wellness routines
Important medical note
Hijama and cupping should not replace medical diagnosis or treatment. If you have a medical condition, are pregnant, take blood-thinning medication, have a skin condition, anaemia, diabetes, heart concerns or are unsure whether Hijama is suitable, please speak to your GP or healthcare professional before booking.
What should I do after Hijama?
Good aftercare helps your body recover comfortably after treatment.
Aftercare guidance
- Stay hydrated after treatment
- Avoid heavy exercise for 24 hours
- Avoid swimming, sauna or steam rooms shortly after treatment
- Keep treated areas clean and dry
- Follow the practitioner’s aftercare instructions
Can I eat after Hijama?
Your practitioner will advise you depending on your appointment. Many clients prefer a light meal and good hydration after treatment.
Will I have marks after cupping?
Cupping can leave temporary marks or discolouration on the skin. These usually fade over time depending on the individual and treatment type.
Still have questions?
Message us on WhatsApp before booking, or reserve your appointment online for Hijama, cupping or massage therapy in East London.