What to Avoid After Hijama Cupping Therapy: A Complete Aftercare Guide

Hijama cupping therapy is a deeply cleansing and rejuvenating practice that draws on centuries of traditional healing. While the therapy itself offers numerous physical, emotional, and spiritual benefits, what you do after the session is just as important. Appropriate aftercare ensures you get the full benefit of your treatment, avoids complications, and supports a smoother healing process.

In this blog, we will explore what to avoid after Hijama, along with practical tips to protect your wellbeing and enhance your recovery.

🍯 1. Start With Honey Water

Immediately after Hijama, your body may feel slightly weak or lightheaded. Drinking warm honey water is an excellent way to naturally replenish lost energy.

Honey is not just a Sunnah remedy; it is a powerful natural healer. It contains antibacterial, antiviral, and antioxidant properties that support digestion, regulate blood sugar, and calm the nervous system.

“The Prophet ﷺ used to drink honey mixed with water in the morning.”
– Zad al-Ma'ad, Ibn al-Qayyim

Benefits of honey water after Hijama:

• Rehydrates and energises the body

• Assists liver detoxification

• Promotes smoother digestion

• Helps flush out toxins faster

🌿 2. Drink Plenty – Including Herbal Teas

Alongside honey water, it’s important to drink plenty of fluids throughout the day. Keeping the body hydrated helps flush out the toxins that Hijama mobilises.

Green tea is particularly recommended post-treatment due to its antioxidant properties, which support liver detox and cellular healing. It also gently boosts circulation without overstimulating the body.

“Water is the best of drinks.”
– Prophet Muhammad ﷺ – Musnad Ahmad

Avoid caffeinated drinks like coffee or fizzy drinks as they can dehydrate the body and interfere with recovery.

🌴 3. Eat Dates to Restore Vital Nutrients

Following honey water, it is highly beneficial to consume a few dates. Dates are rich in iron, potassium, magnesium, and natural sugars – ideal for restoring energy and supporting your immune system.

Dates also have spiritual significance in Islam and were beloved by the Prophet ﷺ.

“In dates, there is healing.”
– Sahih Muslim

Choose Ajwa dates if possible, as they are known for their healing qualities.

🛌 4. Take Ample Rest During the First 24 Hours

Rest is crucial following Hijama therapy. Your body is undergoing a detoxification process, and the immune system is working to repair, rebalance, and replace the blood drawn during the session.

Some people feel energised, but many may feel:

• Tired or drowsy

• Achy or sore

• Lightheaded or dizzy

• Emotionally sensitive

These are normal signs of healing. It is best to:

• Avoid naps immediately after the session (wait at least 3–4 hours)

• Lie down or sit quietly for a while if feeling weak

• Take the day off work or strenuous tasks if possible

"Indeed, your body has a right over you."
– Sahih al-Bukhari

Allowing time for rest within the first 24 hours is essential for full recovery and balance.

🔥 5. Avoid Strenuous Physical Activity for 24 Hours

While a light walk can be helpful post-treatment, intense physical activity should be avoided for at least 24 to 48 hours. Activities like:

• Weight training

• Running or jogging

• Swimming

• High-intensity exercise

• Yoga or pilates

…can increase stress on the body and interfere with the detox process. The skin also needs time to heal and close fully.

🌡️ 6. Avoid Hot Temperatures: Baths, Saunas, Hot Tubs & Steam Rooms

After Hijama, your skin is more sensitive and porous due to the suction and incisions. Exposing your body to high heat within the first 24 hours may cause:

• Stinging or burning at the cupped sites

• Increased inflammation

• Risk of infection due to open pores

Avoid:

• Hot baths

• Saunas

• Steam rooms

• Hot tubs

• Prolonged sun exposure

Stick to cool or lukewarm environments until the skin has healed fully.

🚿 7. Don’t Shower for 12–16 Hours

Your practitioner will advise you to avoid showering immediately after treatment. The skin needs time to close and begin healing.

Avoid:

• Hot water (may irritate or inflame the skin)

• Cold water (can cause chills)

• Strong soaps or exfoliants

After 12–16 hours, use gentle, mild soap and avoid scrubbing the treated areas.

💧 8. Stay Well Hydrated

Water is essential to help your body eliminate the toxins released during cupping. The lymphatic system, which Hijama activates, needs adequate hydration to flush out waste effectively.

Tips:

• Drink at least 8–10 glasses of water daily

• Include herbal teas, such as ginger or mint

• Add lemon to your water for extra detox support

Hydration also helps reduce post-treatment fatigue, supports clearer skin, and assists circulation.

🥩 9. Avoid Dairy Products, Processed Meats, Fish, and Fish Oils

For the first 24 hours, it’s important to avoid:

• Red and processed meats

• Dairy (milk, cheese, yoghurt)

• Fish or shellfish

• Fish oil supplements

These foods can slow down the healing process, increase inflammation, and make blood thicker, reducing the effectiveness of Hijama.

Instead, opt for light, plant-based meals rich in vegetables, whole grains, and natural hydration.

🧁 10. Avoid Junk and Processed Foods

After Hijama, your body needs clean, light, and nourishing food. Overloading your digestive system with refined sugar, fried foods, fizzy drinks, or processed meals can interfere with the body’s healing response.

Instead, choose:

• Steamed or grilled vegetables

• Soups and broths

• Brown rice or quinoa

• Fruits and smoothies

• Herbal teas

✖️ 11. Avoid Caffeine for 24 Hours

Caffeine (from coffee, energy drinks, etc.) can:

• Dehydrate your body

• Stress your adrenal glands

• Interfere with the detox process

To support clean elimination and avoid jitteriness or sleep issues, skip caffeine for the first 24 hours post-Hijama. Herbal teas like peppermint, chamomile, or fennel are great alternatives.

🔴 12. Expect Temporary Skin Discolouration

The suction cups used during Hijama will likely leave behind circular marks, which vary in colour from light pink to deep purple.

This is normal and usually fades within 3 to 7 days, depending on your skin type and level of stagnation in the body.

To soothe the area:

• Apply black seed oil, olive oil, or coconut oil

• Avoid scratching

• Keep the area moisturised

These oils also support healing and reduce inflammation.

“Use olive oil and anoint yourselves with it, for it is from a blessed tree.”
– Sunan Ibn Majah

The use of black seed (Nigella sativa) is well-documented in the Sunnah of the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ and is highly praised for its healing properties. Here is the most well-known and authentic hadith about black seed oil:

“Use this black seed regularly, because it is a cure for every disease, except death.”
— Sahih al-Bukhari (5687), Sahih Muslim (2215)

🧣 13. Keep the Body Warm and Covered

Hijama causes the pores to open, making the body vulnerable to cold air or wind. Keeping yourself warm protects your immune system and supports a faster recovery.

Dress warmly, especially around the cupped areas, and avoid exposure to fans or air conditioning for several hours post-treatment.

❗️14. Avoid Sexual Activity for 24 Hours

Hijama temporarily lowers energy levels and can increase fatigue. To allow your body to fully recover and focus on healing, it is recommended to avoid sexual activity for at least 24 hours after the session.

🧴 15. Avoid Skin Treatments or Products on Cupped Areas

Do not apply perfumes, lotions, scrubs, or exfoliating products on cupped areas for a few days post-treatment. The skin is in a healing phase and may react to harsh ingredients.

Stick to natural oils only, and avoid shaving or waxing near treated areas during the recovery period.

🧘‍♀️ 16. Emotional & Mental Sensitivity Is Normal

Hijama often triggers an emotional detox, especially if spiritual and energetic blockages are being released. Some people may feel:

• More emotional or sensitive

• Low in mood

• Detached or quiet

• Deeply relaxed or sleepy

Allow yourself time to rest mentally as well as physically. This is a sign that the therapy is working on a deeper level – mentally, spiritually, and emotionally.

🕊️ Final Thoughts

Hijama therapy is a holistic treatment that works on every level of your being. By following the correct aftercare practices and avoiding the things listed above, you allow your body to fully absorb the benefits, eliminate toxins effectively, and restore balance.

Be gentle with yourself. Rest. Nourish. Hydrate. Trust the process.

In shaa Allah, you will feel stronger, lighter, and more energised in the days that follow.

⚠️ 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.

🚫 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.

Begin Your Natural Healing Journey with Hijama Cupping Therapy

📅 Book Your Hijama Session Today

Experience natural healing in a safe, clean, and spiritual environment. To book your appointment or ask any questions, please contact us using the details below:

Pure Hijama Cupping Therapist – Contact Details

For Bookings & Enquiries:

📍 Location: Whalley Range, Manchester, United Kingdom
📞 Phone: 07561 373918
📧 Email: info@pure-hijama-cupping-therapist.co.uk
🌐 Website: www.pure-hijama-cupping-therapist.co.uk
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