Hijama Sunnah points are specific areas on the body where the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) recommended cupping for maximum health benefits. These points help improve blood circulation, detoxify the body, and promote overall wellness.
Struggling with chronic pain, recurring migraines, or sluggish circulation? You may not need to look further than a 1,400-year-old prophetic remedy. Hijama cupping therapy rooted in the Sunnah of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) targets specific anatomical points to remove stagnant blood, restore energy pathways, and support the body’s natural healing mechanisms. But not all cupping points are equal: the Prophet (PBUH) identified particular locations on the body that deliver maximum therapeutic effect. In this clinically-informed guide, our certified Hijama specialists at Dynasty Clinic explain each Sunnah point, its anatomical significance, proven health benefits, and the optimal lunar calendar days for treatment so you can benefit from this blessed practice safely and effectively. Ready to experience it? Explore our Hijama Cupping Therapy service in Dubai. |
What are Hijama Sunnah points?
Hijama (الحجامة) is the Islamic practice of therapeutic cupping a form of alternative medicine in which cups are applied to the skin to create controlled suction. In wet cupping (the most common Sunnah-recommended form), a trained practitioner makes small, superficial incisions after the suction phase to draw out a small volume of blood along with metabolic waste products and toxins.
In Dynasty Clinic, our physiotherapy team performs both wet (blood) cupping therapy and dry cupping therapy offering patients the right modality based on their health history and goals. Clinical applications supported by modern research include:
- Reduction of musculoskeletal pain (back, neck, shoulders)
- Improvement in blood microcirculation
- Reduction of inflammatory markers
- Support for immune system modulation
- Relief from tension headaches and migraines
What is Hijama (Cupping Therapy)?
Hijama cupping therapy is a traditional Islamic healing method that involves placing cups on the skin to create suction. In wet cupping, small, controlled incisions are made to draw out stagnant blood and toxins from the body.
This therapy is widely used for:
- Detoxification
- Pain management
- Hormonal balance
- Improved blood circulation
- Preventive healthcare
Hijama is not just a treatmenit is a Sunnah-based wellness practice rooted in centuries of prophetic guidance.
The 6 Primary Hijama Sunnah Points – Detailed Guide
The following points are those most consistently mentioned in authentic Hadith and widely practiced by trained Hijama therapists. Each has a distinct anatomical rationale and therapeutic application.
Sunnah Point | Location | Key Benefits | Priority |
Al-Kahil | Back of Neck / Between Shoulders | Headaches, neck pain, upper back tension | Most cited in Hadith |
Al-Akhda’ain | Two Sides of the Neck | Headaches, facial pain, thyroid, ear problems | High priority |
Crown (Ra’s) | Top/Center of Head | Migraines, mental stress, neurological issues | Prophet (PBUH) used personally |
Katifain | Shoulders & Upper Back | Shoulder stiffness, respiratory issues, fatigue | General wellness |
Asfal al-Kaahin | Lower Back | Lower back pain, kidney support, sciatica | Pain management |
Arjul Wasat | Calves & Feet | Circulation, swelling, leg pain | Supportive point |
1. Al-Kahil – Between the Shoulders (Point BL-14 / GV-14 Area)
Location: The upper back, at the base of the cervical spine, approximately at the C7–T1 junction between the shoulder blades.
This is the most frequently cited Sunnah cupping point. Anatomically, it overlies major nerve roots, the trapezius muscle, and lymphatic drainage pathways. Modern physiotherapy recognizes this region as a primary tension site for desk workers, drivers, and anyone with forward head posture.
Clinically supported benefits include:
- Relief from chronic neck and upper back pain
- Reduction of tension headaches originating at the occiput
- Improved lymphatic drainage in the cervicothoracic junction
- Reduction of muscle knots (myofascial trigger points)
Our physiotherapy team typically begins with Al-Kahil in a standard Hijama session for patients presenting with upper back or cervicogenic headache complaints.
2. Al-Akhda’ain – The Two Jugular Sides of the Neck
Location: Bilateral points on either side of the neck, lateral to the sternocleidomastoid muscle, below the ears.
The Prophet (PBUH) reportedly used this point for conditions affecting the head and face. Physiologically, this area overlies the carotid sheath structures and the external jugular vein, making suction here effective for improving cerebral venous return and lymphatic clearance from the face and scalp.
Applications include:
- Facial congestion and puffiness
- Ear pain or tinnitus (ringing in ears)
- Facial nerve tension
- Thyroid area support (always consult a doctor first)
3. Crown of the Head (Al-Yafa’ah / Qimmat al-Ra’s)
Location: The vertex of the skull the highest central point of the head.
The Prophet (PBUH) is recorded as having received Hijama on his head for migraines. This point is used cautiously today and only by experienced therapists, as it requires precise technique and careful contraindication screening.
- Severe migraines and cluster headaches
- Mental fatigue and cognitive fog
- Scalp tension and hair follicle circulation support
Practitioner Note for WordPress: Add a medical disclaimer paragraph before publishing this point ‘Head cupping must only be performed by certified practitioners. Avoid if you have hypertension or bleeding disorders.’
4. Shoulders & Upper Back (Al-Katifain)
Location: The posterior shoulder region, over the deltoid insertion and rhomboid muscles.
This point addresses one of the most common complaints in modern clinical practice shoulder stiffness and rotator cuff tension. If you also suffer from sports-related shoulder issues, our team may recommend combining Hijama with sport injury physiotherapy for a comprehensive recovery plan.
- Shoulder impingement and restricted range of motion
- Respiratory support (overlies posterior lung fields)
- General body fatigue and systemic detoxification
5. Lower Back (Asfal al-Kaahin)
Location: Bilateral points flanking the lumbar spine, approximately at L3–L5 level, above the iliac crest.
Lower back pain is the leading cause of disability worldwide. Hijama at the lumbar Sunnah points helps decompress fascia, improve local microcirculation, and reduce inflammatory mediators in the paraspinal muscles. This is often combined with our fascia treatment program at Dynasty Clinic for chronic sufferers.
- Chronic lower back pain and lumbar stiffness
- Sciatica (nerve pain radiating down the leg)
- Kidney area support and urinary health
- Post-exercise muscle recovery
6. Calves & Feet (Arjul Wasat)
Location: The posterior calf (gastrocnemius muscle belly) and specific reflex points on the sole of the foot.
These points are less frequently cited in classical Hadith but are part of broader cupping traditions validated across multiple cultures. They are particularly beneficial for patients with circulatory conditions, oedema, or those who stand or walk for long hours.
- Peripheral oedema (fluid retention in the lower limbs)
- Varicose vein discomfort
- Poor peripheral circulation
- Post-exercise recovery for athletes
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The Significance of Hijama in the Sunnah
The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) emphasized the healing benefits of Hijama in several authentic Hadiths. For instance, he said:
“Indeed, the best of remedies you have is Hijama (cupping).” (Sahih al-Bukhari)
Another Hadith states:
“If there is any good in your treatments, it is in Hijama.” (Sunan Abu Dawood)
These narrations highlight Hijama as a Sunnah practice, recommended not only for curing ailments but also as a preventive measure to maintain good health. The Prophet (peace be upon him) also specified particular points on the body and times for performing Hijama to maximize its benefits.
Best Days for Hijama - The Lunar Calendar Guide
Factor | Recommendation |
Sunnah Days | 17th, 19th, or 21st of the Islamic Hijri month |
Preferred Days of Week | Monday, Tuesday, or Thursday |
Time of Day | Morning, on an empty stomach (minimum 3 hours fasting) |
Frequency (General Wellness) | Once a month |
Frequency (Therapeutic) | Every 2–4 weeks for active conditions |
Frequency (Preventive) | 3–4 times per year |
Health Benefits of Hijama - Evidence-Informed Overview
While large-scale randomised controlled trials remain limited, a growing body of clinical literature supports Hijama’s benefits in the following areas:
Physical Benefits
- Chronic musculoskeletal pain relief (back, neck, shoulder, knee)
- Improved local and systemic microcirculation
- Reduction in blood viscosity and inflammatory markers
- Enhanced lymphatic drainage and detoxification
- Immune system modulation
Neurological & Mental Benefits
- Significant reduction in migraine frequency and severity
- Improved sleep architecture (particularly in chronic pain patients)
- Reduction in stress hormones (cortisol regulation)
- Improved cognitive clarity and reduced mental fatigue
Spiritual & Holistic Benefits
- Reviving the Sunnah fulfilling a prophetic recommendation
- Strengthened sense of connection to Islamic wellness tradition
- Integration of spiritual intention (niyyah) with physical healing
For patients seeking a comprehensive wellness approach that combines Hijama with nutrition, hormonal balance, and preventive care, our functional medicine programme at Dynasty Clinic offers a truly integrative pathway.
Who Should Avoid Hijama?
Although Hijama is generally safe, it is not suitable for everyone.
Avoid or consult a doctor if you:
- Have anemia or low hemoglobin
- Suffer from bleeding disorders
- Are pregnant
- Have severe skin infections
- Take blood-thinning medications
What to Expect During a Hijama Session at Dynasty Clinic
Understanding the procedure helps you arrive prepared and confident. Here is a step-by-step overview of what our certified therapists do during each session:
- Pre-session consultation: Review of medical history, contraindication screening, and point selection based on your condition
- Positioning: You will be comfortably positioned (typically prone/face-down) for back points, or seated for neck points
- Cup application: Sterilized silicone or glass cups are placed on the Sunnah points; suction is created for 5–10 minutes
- Incision phase (wet cupping): Ultra-fine lancet creates superficial incisions; cups are reapplied for blood draw (3–7 minutes)
- Wound care: Treated points are cleaned with antiseptic; dressings applied
- Post-session guidance: Hydration advice, rest recommendations, and follow-up scheduling
All instruments used at Dynasty Clinic are single-use, sterile, and disposed of according to Dubai Health Authority (DHA) medical waste standards. Our therapists hold recognised Hijama certifications and operate under clinical supervision.
Ready to book? Visit our appointment page or call us at +971 43 300 048.
Precautions and Guidelines
While Hijama is generally safe when performed by trained professionals, certain precautions should be taken:
- Ensure the practitioner is certified and uses sterile equipment to avoid infections.
- Avoid Hijama if you have severe anemia, bleeding disorders, or are pregnant (consult a doctor).
- Stay hydrated and rest after the procedure to aid recovery.
- Follow Islamic guidelines, such as performing Hijama on recommended days and making dua (supplication) for healing.
Conclusion
Hijama is a powerful Sunnah practice that combines physical healing with deep spiritual significance. By targeting the Hijama Sunnah points such as the back of the neck, head, and shoulders, and performing it on the recommended days, you can follow the guidance of the Prophet (PBUH) while supporting overall health and wellbeing.
Dynasty Clinic offers Hijama Cupping Therapy performed by certified Hijama specialists, ensuring high standards of safety, hygiene, and professional care. Whether you are seeking relief from pain, detoxification, or overall wellness support, the expert team provides a safe and comfortable treatment experience tailored to your needs.
Always consult with a qualified practitioner and healthcare provider before undergoing Hijama to ensure it is suitable for your condition. Embrace this blessed Sunnah practice with the intention of healing and wellness under expert care from Dynasty Clinic.
FAQ – Hijama (Cupping Therapy)
What are the main Hijama Sunnah points?
Upper back, sides of neck, top of head, lower back, shoulders/legs (from teachings of Prophet Muhammad PBUH)
When is the best time for Hijama?
17th, 19th, 21st (Hijri month) • Morning • Mon/Tue/Thu
Is Hijama safe?
Yes—if done by a trained professional with sterile tools
How often should Hijama be done?
Monthly (general) • 2–4 weeks (for issues) • 3–4 times/year (preventive)
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