First, it should be noted that this mapping contains more than a hundred points, to which others may be added depending, for example, on the pain or disorders felt by the patient.
This map was developed based on two theories: -a circulatory theory that has its source in the veno-lymphatic circulation.
A very extensive network, covering all parts of the body and allowing nearly all of it to be treated.
-A neurological theory located at the level of the dorsal and ventral metameres, which are territories of motor or sensory innervation dependent on the spinal nerve.
This mapping was also established based on the points that are mentioned in the Sunnah, and which had been determined in their time through empiricism (a method that advocates validating a theory through the repeated application of it and the observation of its effectiveness).
It is important to point out that although these points have been taken up in the mappings of Chinese medicine, which claim that they are meridian pathways and Qi nodes, this is not supported by any scientific evidence.
Before continuing further with my presentation, I would like to point out one fact.
A good number of practitioners sell their patients a hijama that could be called "Sunnah hijama," and a good number of patients go to practitioners wanting to have a hijama done in order to follow the Sunnah.
It is therefore worth recalling that there is no trace in the texts of a "Sunnah hijama," and that moreover the great scholar, Sheikh al-'Uthaymin (may Allah have mercy on him), says in his explanation of the Sahih of Imam al-Bukhari: "Hijama is indeed a treatment, it is not a Sunnah."
Other scholars have explained this statement by saying that:
Hijama in itself is not a Sunnah, but wanting to treat oneself through it as the Prophet ﷺ did—that is following the Sunnah.
Moreover, some people speak of "Sunnah points," and here again, this does not exist.
There are points that are mentioned in the Sunnah, but when one reads the hadiths, one realizes that the Prophet ﷺ had the cups applied at those particular spots because they were points that had an effect on a specific ailment he was suffering from at that precise moment.
So if he had turned to hijama for other ailments, we would have found other points mentioned in the prophetic traditions.
What the science says: hijama
What published research says about the remedies mentioned above, for context only — these studies address material causes, while healing belongs to Allah.
Hijama
Hijama (cupping with scarification) is an authentic prophetic remedy. Modern research has focused mainly on pain: meta-analyses show a reduction in chronic lower back pain (Rev Lat Am Enfermagem, 2018) (Complement Ther Med, 2024). Precaution: wet hijama (cupping) is an invasive procedure — strict hygiene, single-use equipment, and a trained practitioner are required; it is not recommended without medical advice in cases of bleeding disorders, anticoagulant use, severe anemia, pregnancy, or significant frailty.
