Why Hijama Cupping Therapy Is More Effective on an Empty Stomach

As professional Hijama practitioners, we often advise our clients to undergo cupping therapy on an empty stomach. This guidance tends to spark curiosity — many people wonder why fasting or avoiding food before Hijama makes a difference. In this article, we’ll explore both the Islamic perspective and the physiological reasons behind this practice, highlighting why cupping is most beneficial when the body is in a fasting state.

The Prophetic Practice of Fasting Before Hijama

From an Islamic viewpoint, Hijama (cupping therapy) holds a significant place as a prophetic tradition. The Messenger of Allah, Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), recommended Hijama to be performed while fasting or with an empty stomach.

“Hijama is most beneficial when performed on an empty stomach. It is a cure and a blessing. It enhances the intellect and sharpens memory.”
— [Sahih Sunan Ibn Majah, Hadith 3488]

Furthermore, it is narrated in Sahih al-Bukhari that the Prophet (peace be upon him) was cupped while he was fasting:

“The Messenger of Allah was cupped while he was in a state of fasting.”
— [Sahih al-Bukhari, Hadith 5694]

These narrations emphasise that the fasting state is not just ideal but spiritually and physically superior for receiving the benefits of Hijama.

What Happens in the Body During Fasting?

While we sleep, our body enters a natural state of healing, detoxification, and repair. During this time, stagnant and waste-filled blood collects in the superficial vessels near the skin. When Hijama is performed in the morning before eating, this blood is more accessible and easier to draw out, making the process more effective.

The Arabic term ‘Alaa ar-reeq’ refers to being in a fasting state before cupping — literally, “on an empty stomach.” This practice ensures the maximum removal of harmful, sluggish blood while minimising the loss of healthy, oxygenated blood.

Why Eating Before Hijama Is Not Recommended

Eating before your session activates the digestive system, which significantly redirects blood flow to the stomach and intestines. Here’s what happens:

• Blood circulates faster to support digestion.

• Heart rate and blood pressure rise.

• Less blood is available in other areas such as the skin, brain, and lungs.

• The immune system becomes temporarily focused on processing food.

If Hijama is performed during or shortly after digestion, it may draw fresh, nutrient-rich blood instead of the old, stagnant blood that should be eliminated. This can compromise the therapy's purpose and lead to side effects like dizziness, nausea, or temporary blood pressure imbalance.

Possible Risks of Cupping on a Full Stomach

Performing Hijama after a heavy meal can reduce its benefits and even pose health risks, including:

• Vertigo or fainting due to unstable blood flow to the brain.

• Stroke or infarction in severe cases (though rare).

• Incomplete detoxification, as fresh, clean blood is lost instead of harmful residues.

For your safety and to ensure effective treatment, it’s highly recommended to follow fasting protocols or allow at least 5–6 hours after a heavy meal before your appointment.

What to Eat (and Avoid) Before Your Hijama Session

✅ Recommended:

• Light liquids such as herbal tea, plain water, or diluted juice — up to 3 hours before the session.

• Light snacks or fruit, if needed, at least 3 hours prior.

❌ Avoid:

• Heavy meals like rice, meat, oily or spicy foods within 5–6 hours.

• Full breakfasts or caffeinated drinks close to the session time.

Liquids are generally permitted because they don’t require heavy digestion or disrupt the circulatory balance needed for effective cupping.

Final Advice for Clients

If you're planning to have Hijama, aim to attend your session first thing in the morning after an overnight fast, or allow ample time between meals and treatment. This allows your body to be in its most receptive state for detox and healing.

Remember: Hijama is not just a physical cleanse — it’s a spiritual and emotional rejuvenation. Following the best practices ensures you receive the full benefit as intended by the Sunnah.

⚠️ Important Medical Precaution

The content shared in this blog is intended for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always seek guidance from a qualified healthcare professional before beginning any complementary treatment, including Hijama (wet cupping) therapy.

At Pure Hijama Cupping Therapist, your safety and wellbeing are our top priority. To ensure every session is both effective and safe, it is essential that you consult your GP or a healthcare provider before booking if you have any of the following conditions or circumstances:

🚫 Conditions & Situations Requiring Medical Clearance or Contraindication:

• Pregnancy – Hijama should not be performed during pregnancy due to potential risks to the mother and baby.

• Anaemia – Low haemoglobin or red blood cell counts require controlled cupping and medical supervision.

• Heart Disease – Cardiac conditions may be affected by changes in circulation during Hijama.

• Diabetes – Poorly controlled diabetes can delay healing and increase infection risk.

• Clotting Disorders or Blood Thinners – These increase the risk of excessive bleeding or bruising and require medical approval.

• Low Blood Pressure – Cupping may further lower blood pressure, which can lead to dizziness or fainting.

• Cancer (Active or Recent) – Those undergoing cancer treatment may have compromised immunity or increased risks during therapy.

• HIV or Hepatitis C/D – These viral infections impact the immune system and liver. Hijama must only be considered with specialist medical guidance and in a strictly controlled setting.

• Infections – Wet cupping should never be performed if there is an active infection present in the body.

• Weakened Immune System or Recent Surgery – Individuals recovering from surgery or with suppressed immunity are more vulnerable to complications.

• Steroid Use (including corticosteroids) – Long-term or high-dose use of steroids can suppress the immune system, thin the skin, and delay healing. This increases the risk of post-cupping side effects such as bruising or infection. Medical advice is essential before proceeding with treatment.

• Liver or Kidney Disease – These organs play key roles in detoxifying the blood; Hijama may place stress on these systems if they are impaired.

• Severe Varicose Veins or Vascular Conditions – Performing Hijama on or near compromised veins can cause further damage or blood vessel rupture.

• Neurological Disorders (e.g. epilepsy, multiple sclerosis) – Such conditions may require specialist assessment before cupping.

• Severe Mental Health Conditions – Clients with untreated severe mental illness (e.g. psychosis, schizophrenia) may not be suitable candidates for treatment due to the nature of the therapy.

• Immunosuppressive Medication (e.g. chemotherapy, transplant medication) – Increases risk of infection and delayed healing.

• Eating Disorders or Severe Malnutrition – Individuals with very low body weight or nutrient deficiencies may not tolerate cupping well.

• Severe Allergies or Anaphylaxis History – If you have known allergies to oils, latex, or other substances, please let us know in advance.

• Under 18 or Over 65 Years of Age – Cupping for children and the elderly must be approached with caution due to sensitive skin and potential underlying health concerns.

• Skin Conditions, Open Wounds, or Infected Areas – Hijama should never be carried out on inflamed, broken, or infected skin.

✅ Our Commitment to Safe Practice

At Pure Hijama Cupping Therapist, we provide a clean, clinical, and respectful environment. All treatments are delivered by a qualified, experienced, and fully insured practitioner using sterile and controlled techniques tailored to your individual needs.

Your health comes first. If you are uncertain about your eligibility for Hijama, please contact us or speak to your GP before proceeding with treatment.

📞 Book Your Hijama Session Today

To experience the powerful benefits of Hijama Cupping Therapy in a safe, professional, and spiritually grounded environment, get in touch using the details below:

📍 For Bookings & Enquiries:

🌐 Website: www.pure-hijama-cupping-therapist.co.uk
📍 Location: Whalley Range, Manchester, United Kingdom
📞 Phone: 07561373918
📧 Email: info@pure-hijama-cupping-therapist.co.uk
📸 Instagram: @purehijamacuppingtherapist
📘 Facebook: Pure Hijama Cupping Therapist