After your visit

After the hijama session, it is advisable (but not essential) to

  • Drink water or eat a spoonful of honey or some dates

  • Rest for 10 to 15 minutes before exerting yourself

  • Rub blackseed oil, olive oil or another natural oil over the cupped area

  • Eat or drink more fresh fruit/vegetables and juices

  • Drink plenty of water and herbal teas

  • Rest if you feel lethargic or nauseous

  • Take a walk but not exert yourself

  • Relax and reflect: you've detoxed your body, now detox your mind

You may like to apply natural oil such as olive oil or argan oil to soothe any mild irritation. 

Everyone is different and you will have your own way of responding to the session.  We suggest that for a few hours after the session you avoid exercise and sleep.  There may be short term changes to

  • Your sleep patterns

  • Your moods and emotional levels

  • Levels of appetite

Occasionally, there may be some mild skin breakouts such as spots and pimples, different bowel and urinary habits including flatulence and mild changes to phlegm, mucus and sweat.

 

Drinking Water

 

Recent Studies and Advice

A 2016 study suggests that drinking more water can reduce intake of calories, sugar, salt, saturated fat and cholesterol.  Another 2016 study suggests that water instead of diet beverages may help weight loss for diabetics.

A 2015 study concluded that a range of sports, to avoid fatal drops in low blood sodium and hyponatremia (low blood sodium) one should drink when thirsty. NHS Choices advise that as a guide, "... passing pale or clear-coloured urine (wee) is a good sign that you're well hydrated."

The NHS Eatwell Guide says, "drink six to eight glasses of fluid a day. Water, lower fat milk and sugar-free drinks including tea and coffee all count." whereas the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine advises women to have around 2.7 litres daily from all beverages and foods and for men 3.7 litres.  One GP, writing in the BMJ in 2011, asserted that there is no evidence to support the NHS advice.

People on medication need to check whether dehydration is one of the side-effects and one should consult a GP to seek advice.