HIJAMAH (CUPPING THERAPY) AS A PREVENTIVE MEDICINE- A RETRO-PROSPECTIVE ANALYTICAL STUDY
Abstract
Hijamah (Cupping therapy) is an age old method of bloodletting through a local suction on the skin after scarification in order to preserve health and prevent diseases. Its evidence exists in the classical literature of Unani Medicine day back from the time of Buqrat (Hippocrates 460-370 BC). Cupping therapy is found to have both curative and preventive capabilities. By improving the circulation of blood, lymph and other vital fluids and breaking up and dispersing blockages and congestions offending waste matter, toxins and morbid humors, cupping improves the eliminative functions and the evacuation of wastes from the body. In Unani Medicine, the proper and timely evacuation of wastes from the body (Istifragh) forms an important aspect of hygiene and preventive medicine. The present study is an attempt to reveal the role of cupping therapy in health promotion and disease prevention.
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