Evidence-Based Therapeutic Benefits of Cupping Therapy (Ḥijāma): A Comprehensive Review

Abstract

Ilaj bi’l tadbeer (regimenal therapy) is one of the preferred treatment methods used in Unani system of medicine since ancient times. Ḥijāma is one of the effective modalities of treatment in Ilaj bi’l tadbeer. It is a unique therapeutic procedure in which cup like vessels are placed on the body surface by creating a vacuum to either let out blood from below the skin surface or just plain suction without bloodletting. The objective of this comprehensive review paper is to address the claims of Unāni physicians and clinical studies conducted on the efficacy of Ḥijāma. Various published clinical trials showed the efficacy of Ḥijāma in the management of a number of diseases. Though, the effect showed by some clinical trials was short term. Hence, it is suggested that rigorous, well-designed, controlled, randomized and long duration follow up clinical trials on large sample size are to be conducted by trained clinicians or researchers to establish the efficacy of Ḥijāma in the management of various diseases. Keywords: Ilaj bi’l tadbeer, Ḥijāma, Therapeutic Benefits