Before you book
Questions and answers
The things I'm asked most about hijama, answered plainly.
Is hijama the same as cupping?
Hijama is wet cupping. Cups are placed on the skin to create gentle suction, lifted, small superficial scratches are made, and the cups go back on for a few minutes. Dry cupping uses the same cups with suction alone, and the skin is not scratched.
Does hijama hurt?
Most clients describe pressure from the cups and a brief scratching feeling. Some people find it uncomfortable. I check in with you throughout, explain each step before I do it, and we can pause or stop whenever you want.
How long does a session take?
About an hour. That covers going through your assessment, agreeing the points together, the cupping itself, dressings and aftercare.
Is it women only?
Yes. I see women only, one client at a time, in a private treatment space. I am the only practitioner, so you will always be seen by me.
Who will be doing my hijama?
Me, Nour. I am a pharmacist and an Independent Prescriber as well as a hijama practitioner. I read your medication and health history myself before every booking is confirmed.
Where in London are you?
Sessions take place in a private treatment space in North West London (NW6) or West London (W3). You choose which you prefer when you book, and you get the meeting point by email when your booking is confirmed.
What should I do before hijama?
Eat something light two to three hours before, and avoid a heavy meal. Drink plenty of water during the day and wear loose, comfortable clothing. Tell me if anything about your health or medication has changed since you booked.
What should I do after hijama?
Keep the dressings dry for 4 to 6 hours. Have water, dates and something light to eat. Rest, and do not drive if you feel light-headed. Leave the gym, sauna and cold showers for 24 hours.
How long do the marks last?
Cupping leaves circular marks where the cups sat. They fade with time, and how long that takes varies from person to person, so I don't give a fixed number of days.
Can I have hijama if I am pregnant?
No. Hijama is not carried out during pregnancy. The booking form asks about this, and if there is any chance you could be pregnant please say so.
Can I have hijama if I take medication or blood thinners?
Tell me in the assessment when you book. As a pharmacist I review your medication before any cup goes on, and I may call you to check something. Please do not stop any prescribed medicine, and speak to your GP first if you are under a doctor's care.
Is the equipment single-use?
Yes. Cups and blades are single-use. They are opened in front of you, used once and then safely disposed of. Surfaces and equipment are disinfected between every client.
How much does hijama cost in London?
My prices are on the pricing page: a one-hour session of wet cupping, dry cupping or Fertility Hijama, paid on the day. Nothing is charged when you book online.
How do I book, and what if I need to cancel?
Choose a day and time on the booking page and fill in the short health assessment. I review every request myself and confirm by email. If you need to cancel, please do it at least 24 hours before, using the link in your email.
Does hijama replace seeing my doctor?
No. Hijama is a complementary therapy and does not replace medical advice. I can't promise any particular result. Many clients tell me they feel lighter and sleep well afterwards, but that is their experience, and everyone's is different.