Comparative Analysis of Hematological and Biochemical Profiles in Cupping (Hijamah) Blood vs. Venous Blood Samples

Abstract

Background: Cupping therapy, an ancient therapeutic method still practiced in many parts of the world, has roots in Islamic medicine and was endorsed by the Messenger of God, Muhammad, for treating various ailments. The practice is traditionally performed on odd days, preferably when the patient is fasting. Cupping, derived from the Arabic word meaning to reduce or restore the body to its natural state, involves the use of glass or plastic cups to create superficial scratches that aid in extracting blood and toxins from the body. There are two recognized types of cupping: wet cupping, where the cup is applied with negative pressure, removed to make superficial scratches, and reapplied. and dry cupping, where blood is collected without making incisions.

Methods: This study focused on patients from the Faisal Cupping Centre, with 22 cases observed between 1June   to 30June 2022. Haematological and biochemical parameters were measured to compare Cupping (Hijamah) blood with venous blood samples.

Results: The study revealed higher haematological indicators in venous blood compared to cupping blood, and were statistically significant, with p value <0.01, While the biochemical blood parameters were cupping blood slightly higher than venous blood, parameters blood sugar, urea, triglycerides, and uric acid were statistically significant, with a moral value of less than 0.05, while cholesterol and C-reactive protein were higher than 0.05.

Conclusion: The findings suggest that wet cupping affects certain biochemical markers, particularly blood sugar percentage, cholesterol, and triglycerides, with minimal impact on other indicators.