Dry cupping uses suction, wet cupping also pierces the skin
Dry cupping creates negative pressure without intentional bleeding. Wet cupping, commonly called hijama, includes superficial skin puncture and blood exposure. The risks and infection-control requirements are therefore different.
An adjunct for selected symptoms, not a cure-all
NCCIH reports that most cupping research is low quality. It may help reduce pain for some people, but evidence is not strong and there is insufficient high-quality research for many other claimed conditions.
Cupping should not delay assessment of weakness, fever, inflammatory disease, fracture, cancer, vascular disease or another condition requiring specific care.
Blood-borne infection prevention is essential
Wet cupping requires single-use sterile blades or lancets, appropriate cups or sterilisation, gloves, sharps disposal and blood-spill procedures. Screening includes anaemia, bleeding disorders, anticoagulants, skin disease, infection, pregnancy and healing problems.
Frequently asked questions
Is hijama the same as dry cupping?
No. Hijama or wet cupping pierces the skin and involves blood. Dry cupping uses suction without intentional bleeding.
Does cupping remove toxins?
There is no accepted clinical test showing that cupping removes undefined toxins. Any proposed benefit should be described using measurable symptoms and function.
Can patients taking blood thinners have hijama?
Bleeding risk must be reviewed. Do not stop anticoagulant or antiplatelet medication without the prescribing clinician’s advice.
Related guidance
Clinical references
Authoritative sources used for the educational review: