Is Hijama Safe for High Blood Pressure?
High blood pressure, medically known as hypertension, is a widespread condition that affects heart health and overall well-being. When blood pressure remains consistently high, it increases the risk of serious complications. Because of these risks, many people explore complementary and natural therapies, including Hijama cupping therapy, to support their health alongside medical treatment.
Hijama cupping therapy has been practiced for centuries as part of holistic and prophetic medicine. However, when it comes to hijama and hypertension, safety, timing, and proper assessment are essential.
Hijama and High Blood Pressure: What Is the Connection?
Hijama works by improving blood circulation, releasing muscular tension, and supporting the body’s natural detoxification processes. These effects may help calm the nervous system and reduce stress, a crucial factor in managing blood pressure. For this reason, some people consider cupping therapy for high blood pressure as a supportive wellness approach.
Common Signs of High Blood Pressure
High blood pressure is often called the “silent killer” because many people don’t notice symptoms until it becomes severe. However, some signs and symptoms may appear when blood pressure is very high:
- Headaches (especially in the morning)
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
- Blurred vision or vision changes
- Nosebleeds (less common)
- Fatigue or confusion
- Chest pain or pressure
- Shortness of breath
- Irregular heartbeat
Is Hijama Safe for Hypertension?
The answer depends on the individual’s condition. It can be safe for some people, but not for everyone.
Hijama is not recommended when blood pressure is very high or uncontrolled, or when a person is experiencing symptoms such as dizziness, chest discomfort, severe headaches, or extreme weakness. Individuals who have had a recent heart attack or stroke, or those taking strong blood-thinning medications, should avoid hijama unless they have clear medical approval. In these situations, hijama may increase the risk of fainting, excessive weakness, or sudden blood pressure changes.
This is why understanding hijama contraindications and following hijama safety guidelines is critical for both practitioners and patients.
When Is Hijama Safer for People with High Blood Pressure?
Hijama may be considered safer when blood pressure is stable and well-controlled through medication or lifestyle management. Using gentle techniques, avoiding excessive suction, and limiting the number of cupping points are important hijama precautions for hypertension.
Both wet cupping and blood pressure, and dry cupping and hypertension require careful consideration. Dry cupping is generally gentler, while wet cupping should only be done with extra caution and professional judgment.
Hijama cupping therapy can be beneficial for many conditions, including high blood pressure, but certain contraindications and precautions need to be taken care of if a client has hypertension.
Absolute Contraindications (should NOT do hijama)
- Severely uncontrolled high blood pressure
2. Active heart disease
3. Severe bleeding disorders
4. Infection at the cupping site means skin infections, rashes, or open wounds.
5. Severe anemia or blood loss disorders
Relative Contraindications (use caution)
- Mild to moderate high blood pressure, if controlled with medication.
- Elderly clients with cardiovascular issues.
- Clients with dizziness, fainting, or hypotension after a previous hijama.
- Skin sensitivity or tendency to bruise easily.
Best Time to Do Hijama for High Blood Pressure
Choosing the best time to do hijama is especially important for individuals with hypertension. Late morning to early afternoon is often considered safer, as blood pressure is more stable during this period. Early morning sessions may not be ideal because blood pressure naturally rises at that time.
Hijama should not be done when a person is extremely tired, dehydrated, emotionally stressed, or immediately after heavy physical activity.
Precautions for High Blood Pressure Patients
- Check blood pressure before each session.
- Avoid excessive bloodletting; limit cups and time.
- Use superficial cupping rather than deep wet cupping if unsure.
- Monitor the client during and after the session for dizziness or headache.
- Encourage hydration and rest post-session.
Safe Hijama points for high blood pressure
For patients with high blood pressure, the safest points for hijama are mainly on the upper back, along the bladder meridian, between the shoulder blades, and on the shoulders and arms. These areas help improve circulation and relieve tension without putting the heart under stress. Superficial cupping with small, controlled bloodletting is recommended, and deep cupping should be avoided.
The points that should be avoided are the abdomen, lower back over the kidneys, the neck near large blood vessels, and any area where deep cupping could trigger a rapid rise in blood pressure. These locations can overstimulate the nervous system or lead to excessive bleeding, which is risky for someone with hypertension.
Proper hijama safety precautions protect both the patient and the practitioner. Monitoring the client during and after the session, ensuring hydration, and stopping immediately if discomfort occurs are essential parts of ethical practice.
Hijama for high blood pressure can be a supportive and complementary therapy for some individuals, but only when the condition is controlled, and proper precautions are followed. Understanding when to do hijama for blood pressure, recognizing who should not undergo treatment, and choosing the right timing are key factors in safety.
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