Journal of Tourism & Hospitality
Open Access

Abstract

Reviving the Cupping Therapy “Al-hijama” through the Frame Work of Developing Health Care Tourism in Egypt

Saad A

In the recent years, World Health Organization (WHO) has supported the practice of Traditional and Complementary Medicine (TCM) due to its wide health benefits, safety and minimal side-effects compared to chemical agents. People either in developed or developing countries prefer this kind of medicine for several reasons. The health authorities in many countries recognize the importance of traditional medicine in the provision of health care and have initiated efforts to promote and ensure the safe practice of TCM. This research sheds light on the Cupping therapy “Al-Hijama” as an important field of Traditional & Complementary Medicine and/or Arabic medicine. Cupping therapy is a simple, effective, economic, time-saving and synergistic line of treatment with pharmacotherapy. Although World Health Organization works with countries to develop policies most appropriate for their situations, the practice of the Cupping therapy “Al-Hijama” is facing sharp antagonism from the Egyptian ministry of health and population. The study analyses the current status in Egypt, questionnaires were sent to specialist doctors in the physical therapy to know their opinions, participations, and recommendation towards this matter.