Abstract:
Hypertension is one of the most common non-communicable diseases and a major risk factor for cardiovascular disorders. While pharmacological treatment is the primary management approach, alternative therapies such as cupping therapy (Hijama) are gaining popularity due to their non-invasive nature and relatively low cost. This literature review aims to evaluate the effectiveness of cupping therapy in reducing blood pressure among individuals with hypertension. Literature was obtained from scientific databases such as PubMed, Science direct, and Google Scholar focusing on studies published between 2015 and 2025. Analysis of ten selected studies revealed that cupping therapy, either as a standalone treatment or in combination with conventional medicine, significantly reduced both systolic and diastolic blood pressure. The therapeutic effects are believed to be related to improved blood circulation, toxin elimination through the skin, and stimulation of the autonomic nervous system. Although the findings are promising, further research with randomized controlled trials and larger sample sizes is needed to confirm the effectiveness and safety of this therapy. This review concludes that cupping therapy holds potential as an effective complementary approach in the management of hypertension.
