Hijama Cupping Theory & History Flashcards

A 2015 systematic review published in PLOS ONE found cupping therapy to have the most evidence supporting its use for which category of conditions?

Answer: Pain and musculoskeletal conditions

The systematic review identified pain conditions—including neck pain, low back pain, and musculoskeletal disorders—as having the strongest evidence base for cupping therapy.

The 'secretion theory' proposed to explain wet hijama's effect suggests that the practice works by:

Answer: Removing nociceptive and inflammatory mediators accumulated in the interstitial fluid

The secretion theory posits that wet cupping removes pain-causing and inflammatory chemicals (e.g., bradykinin, prostaglandins) from the interstitial space, reducing local pain and inflammation.

In modern hijama practice in the United States, practitioners must be aware that wet cupping is regulated primarily as:

Answer: A practice whose legal status and required licensing varies by state

Wet cupping's legal status differs by U.S. state—some classify it under acupuncture licensing, others under esthetics, and some lack specific regulation, requiring practitioners to research their state's laws.

What is the term used in modern hijama research for the reddish-purple circular marks left on the skin after cupping that result from ruptured capillaries?

Answer: Ecchymosis (or cup marks)

The marks left by cupping are clinically termed ecchymosis—subcutaneous bleeding from capillary rupture caused by the suction—and are distinct from bruising caused by blunt force.

Which global health organization has included traditional cupping in its Traditional Medicine Strategy and acknowledges it as part of traditional and complementary medicine (T&CM)?

Answer: The World Health Organization (WHO)

The WHO's Traditional Medicine Strategy 2014–2023 recognizes cupping as part of T&CM practices and advocates for evidence-based integration where appropriate.

According to the 'nitric oxide theory' of cupping, how does suction applied to the skin contribute to therapeutic effects?

Answer: It stimulates nitric oxide release, promoting local vasodilation and increased blood flow

Researchers propose that cupping-induced mechanical stimulation triggers nitric oxide release in vascular endothelium, causing vasodilation and improved local microcirculation.

When comparing dry cupping and wet (hijama) cupping in clinical research, which statement most accurately reflects the current evidence?

Answer: Both methods show therapeutic potential but high-quality RCTs are still limited for both

Current research shows promising results for both modalities, but systematic reviews consistently note the need for more rigorous randomized controlled trials to establish definitive conclusions.