Hypertension (high blood pressure) is one of the most common chronic conditions worldwide—and one of the most preventable. Alongside conventional treatments, many people explore complementary therapies such as Hijama (wet cupping)

(هل الحجامة مفيدة لمرضى الضغط) to support cardiovascular health. While Hijama has historical and cultural significance, it should be understood in the context of modern medical science and used safely.

What Is Hijama?

Hijama, or wet cupping, is a traditional therapy in which:

1. Cups are placed on the skin to create suction.
2. Small, superficial incisions are made.
3. A small amount of blood is drawn out.

Practitioners believe this helps remove “stagnation” and improve circulation. In modern terms, Hijama is considered a complementary therapy that may have physiological effects such as:

• Improved local blood flow
• Possible modulation of the autonomic nervous system
• Temporary muscle relaxation and stress reduction

Can Hijama Help Lower Blood Pressure?

Research is limited, but some small studies suggest that Hijama may lead to short-term reductions in blood pressure, likely due to:

• Stress relief → Lower sympathetic nervous system activation
• Pain reduction → Reduced systemic stress response
• Improved microcirculation
• Possible reduction of inflammatory markers

However, Hijama is not a standalone treatment for hypertension, and it should never replace doctor-prescribed medications.

What We Do Know

• The relaxation response after Hijama may help reduce blood pressure temporarily in some individuals.
• Evidence is not strong enough to claim it cures hypertension.
• Effects vary widely from person to person.

A Holistic Approach to Hypertension

A safe strategy combines conventional and complementary care:

1. Conventional Medical Management

• BP medications (as prescribed: ACE inhibitors, ARBs, diuretics, etc.)
• Regular blood pressure monitoring
• Managing cholesterol and diabetes if present

2. Lifestyle Interventions

These have the strongest long-term impact:

• DASH diet (high in vegetables, fruits, low in salt)
• Regular moderate exercise
• Weight management
• Reducing coffee, alcohol, and smoking
• Stress-management techniques (breathing, mindfulness, yoga)

3. Complementary Therapies (Including Hijama)

Hijama can be integrated safely when:

• Performed by a qualified, licensed practitioner
• Using sterile equipment
• You are medically screened for contraindications
  (such as anemia, bleeding disorders, anticoagulant use, pregnancy considerations, skin infections, weak immunity)

Who Should Avoid Hijama

• People on strong blood thinners
• Individuals with clotting disorders
• Those with anemia or severe chronic illness
• Pregnant women (except when cleared by a clinician)
• People with active infections or skin conditions in the cupping area

How to Safely Use Hijama for Hypertension

1. Get medical clearance from your doctor first.
2. Do not stop or reduce BP medications unless guided by a physician.
3. Use Hijama as a stress-relief and wellness practice, not a cure.
4. Monitor blood pressure before and after to observe patterns.
5. Combine with a comprehensive lifestyle plan.

Conclusion

Hijama can be part of a holistic approach to managing hypertension—primarily through stress reduction and improved well-being—but it should be integrated alongside, never in place of, evidence-based medical care. The most reliable path to healthy blood pressure remains a combination of medication when needed, lifestyle improvements, and safe complementary therapies.