Hijama (wet cupping)
Cups are placed with suction for a few minutes. They are removed, shallow incisions are made with a new sterile blade, and the cups go back on to draw out a small amount of blood. It is the method described in the hadith.
Best for people who want the traditional practice. Read how to prepare first.
Dry cupping and cupping massage
Cups stay in place, or glide over oiled skin as a cupping massage. There are no cuts and no blood is drawn. Round marks appear and usually fade in 3 to 10 days.
Best for first-timers, people who dislike needles or blades, and anyone whose health means wet cupping is not suitable.
Fire cupping
A flame is passed inside a glass cup for a second to use up the oxygen, then the cup is placed on the skin at once. The flame never touches you. The cooling air inside creates the suction.
Because it involves fire, it is done only by experienced practitioners, and never near oils or alcohol-based products.
Leech therapy
Medicinal leeches are placed on a small, specific area for a limited time, then removed. It is an old practice used in several traditions and is booked separately from cupping.
Because of the bleeding involved, tell us about any blood-thinning medication or clotting condition beforehand. See who should wait.