CHRONIC OBSTRUCTIVE PULMONARY DISEASE AND HIJAMAH (CUPPING THERAPY): A NEW INSIGHT IN LIGHT OF UNANI MEDICINE

Abstract

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) has become a global epidemic. It is defined as a preventable and treatable disease state characterized by airflow limitation that is not fully reversible. The airflow limitation is usually progressive and associated with an abnormal inflammatory response of the lungs in response to the noxious agents including cigarette smoke, biomass fuels and occupational agents. By definition, it is treatable, but the effectiveness of the current treatment is unsatisfactory as there is no available therapy to better control the inflammatory progression which contributes to irreversible airflow limitation. Accordingly, the development of an efficient anti-inflammatory therapy is a priority for patients with COPD. Complementary and Alternative Medicine (CAM) is one of the promising approach in treating such patients. Hijamah or Cupping is one of the regimens or CAM modality, mentioned in Unani system of Medicine under Ilaj-bit-tadbeer (Regimental therapy). It has been in practice to treat various disorders since the time immemorial. It acts to draw inflammation and pressure away from the deep organs towards the skin and facilitates the healing process. It diverts the toxins and other harmful impurities from the vital organs towards the less vital. Eradicating the morbid material and prove to be beneficial in various diseases, especially the inflammatory conditions. In the light of the above understanding, an alternative approach-“Hijamah or Cupping therapy” was intended to be explored in the light of Unani classical literature for the management of COPD as a better, safe and efficacious substitute to the existing treatment options. Aim of this article is to provide a general outline on description of conditions mimicking COPD and their management by cupping therapy in the light of Unani system of medicine.