CUPPING THERAPY (HIJAMAH): AN ANCIENT THERAPY

*Saba Ansari, Shazia Jilani and Azhar Jabeen

ABSTRACT

Cupping therapy (Hijamah in Arabic) is an ancient, holistic method for the treatment of a variety of diseases. Exact origin of cupping therapy is unknown. Diverse human civilizations such as Greeko-Egyptian, Unani have done medical practices and contributed for development and growth. Eber’s papyrus (1550 BC) is the oldest medical text found in Ancient Egypt which has mentioned cupping therapy. Hijamah is used for prophylaxis, health promotion and treatment of a variety of ailments around the world. Cupping therapy (Hijamah) is a well-recognized traditional method mentioned in Classical Unani literature for managing medical conditions like musculoskeletal diseases of joints, gynaecological complaints, pharyngitis, ear ailments, angina and lung diseases. Currently, the scope of cupping therapy is expanding, and a growing body of research is providing additional evidence-based data for the further advancement of cupping therapy in the treatment for different disease.

Keywords: Hijamah, Regimental therapy, Cupping therapy, musculoskeletal pain, detoxification.