Blood Thinners and Hijama (Wet Cupping Therapy): A Professional Guide for Safe Practice

Hijama therapy, also known as wet cupping, is increasingly recognised in the UK for its natural healing benefits, especially for circulation, detoxification, and overall wellbeing. However, many clients on blood thinning medication are unsure whether they can safely undergo this therapy.

This guide explains how Hijama can still be a safe and effective option for individuals on blood thinners—provided it's carried out by trained professionals, with appropriate medical advice and timing.

🩸 What Are Blood Thinners?

Blood thinners are medications prescribed to help prevent the formation of blood clots, which can cause serious health issues such as strokes, heart attacks, or pulmonary embolism. While they don’t dissolve existing clots, they reduce the blood’s ability to form new or larger ones, helping it flow more freely through veins and arteries.

There are two main types:

• Anticoagulants – slow down the body’s natural clotting process (e.g. warfarin, apixaban, rivaroxaban).

• Antiplatelets – prevent blood platelets from clumping together (e.g. aspirin, clopidogrel).

🏥 Why Are Blood Thinners Prescribed?

Medical professionals typically prescribe blood thinning medication for people who have:

• A history or risk of heart attack or stroke

• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT)

• Irregular heart rhythms (e.g. atrial fibrillation)

• Blood clots following surgery

• Peripheral artery disease

• Artificial heart valves or recent joint replacement surgery

These medications can be life-saving, but they also require careful management when considering any form of treatment involving skin penetration, such as Hijama.

⚠️ Common Side Effects of Blood Thinning Medication

While highly effective, blood thinners can come with side effects, such as:

• Easy or prolonged bleeding (even from small cuts)

• Nosebleeds or bleeding gums

• Blood in urine or stools

• Heavy menstrual flow in women

• Unusual bruising

• Fatigue or weakness

• Hair thinning (in some cases)

These risks highlight the importance of appropriate precautions when combining blood thinners with any physical therapy.

🌿 Natural Substances With Blood-Thinning Effects

Several foods and natural supplements have blood-thinning properties and should be used cautiously—especially alongside prescribed medication. Examples include:

• Turmeric – Contains curcumin, which reduces clot formation and supports heart health.

• Ginger – Has salicylates, similar to those found in aspirin.

• Cinnamon – Contains coumarin, which mimics pharmaceutical blood thinners.

• Garlic – Naturally reduces platelet stickiness.

• Vitamin E – Found in nuts and seeds; excessive intake may increase bleeding risk.

• Grape Seed Extract – Known to improve circulation and reduce platelet clumping.

While natural, these substances can interact with medication. Always consult your doctor if you consume them regularly while on blood thinners.

💉 Can You Have Hijama While Taking Blood Thinners?

Yes – Hijama cupping therapy can be performed safely on patients taking blood thinners, as long as it is done by a qualified therapist and medical advice is followed.

Hijama involves making small, superficial incisions in the skin to draw out stagnant or toxic blood. For individuals on blood thinners, the reduced clotting ability may slightly increase the chance of prolonged bleeding. However, when managed professionally, the risks are minimal and the benefits remain significant.

⏳ How Long Should You Pause Blood Thinners Before Hijama?

If you are considering Hijama while on anticoagulant or antiplatelet therapy, it is essential to consult your GP or specialist first.

Recommended medication pause periods (subject to medical clearance):

• Apixaban (Eliquis), Rivaroxaban (Xarelto) – Usually 24 hours

• Warfarin, Aspirin – May require 24 to 48 hours depending on dosage and patient condition

Never stop or adjust your medication without your doctor’s approval. Once clearance is given, a suitable time gap can be planned between your last dose and your Hijama session.

🌙 The Benefits of Hijama for Circulation and Detox

Hijama is more than just an alternative therapy—it is a natural method of blood purification. The technique promotes circulation, eliminates metabolic waste, and supports the body's innate healing mechanisms.

Key benefits include:

• Improved blood flow and oxygen delivery

• Reduced inflammation and muscular pain

• Enhanced immune function

• Detoxification of cellular waste and dead blood cells

• Relief from fatigue, stress, and stagnation

For many clients, especially those on long-term medication, Hijama offers a gentle, holistic way to support health alongside medical treatment.

✅ Safety Precautions for Hijama While on Blood Thinners

To ensure a safe experience, follow these professional guidelines:

• Always obtain medical clearance before booking your session.

• Disclose all medications during your consultation.

• Schedule your treatment in accordance with your doctor’s instructions.

• Choose a qualified and certified Hijama practitioner who uses strict hygiene protocols and precise techniques.

At Pure Hijama Cupping Therapist, we prioritise client safety above all else and personalise every session according to individual health needs.

⚠️ 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

📅 Ready to Book Your Hijama Session?

If you’re taking blood thinners and are interested in Hijama therapy, we are here to support you with expertise, care, and integrity. Whether you're managing a long-term condition or simply seeking holistic detox, your safety and wellbeing are our top priorities.

📍 Contact Us to Book Your Appointment

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