Effect of Ḥijāma bi’l Sharṭ (wet cupping) along with Unani formulation in a patient of Shaqīqa-i-Muzmin (Chronic migraine): A Case Report

Abstract

Migraine ranks as the second most common neurological disorder worldwide and plays a substantial role in disability, impacting around 15% of the population. Chronic migraine specifically causes severe debilitation, greatly reducing the quality of life for individuals experiencing it. Despite the availability of pharmacological treatments, they frequently lead to undesirable side effects, leading to the investigation of alternative therapies. In the Unani System of Medicine, migraine is referred to as Shaqīqa, and Ḥijāma b’il Sharṭ (wet cupping) has been utilized for centuries in its management. This case study presents a 32-year-old female suffering from chronic migraine since childhood, highlighting the effectiveness of Ḥijāma b’il Sharṭ administered over five sittings. The results demonstrate significant improvements in the duration, severity, and frequency of migraine attacks. These findings suggest that Ḥijāma b’il Sharṭ may serve as a valuable alternative treatment for chronic migraine, offering a therapeutic option that minimizes the risk of adverse effects associated with conventional medications.