Work

Lunar synchronization of hemostasis and immunity validates prophetic timing of hijama therapy: A multicenter study from Yemen

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Objective: This study investigated lunar-phase-dependent variations in hematological and immune parameters to empirically validate traditional Islamic recommendations for performing hijama (wet cupping) during specific mid-Hijri lunar days (17th-21st). Methods: A total of 258 healthy adults (200 men and 58 women) from Ad'Dla Governorate underwent morning venipuncture (0700-0900, ≥8 h fasting) during the new moon (1st-5th) and full moon (17th-21st) phases. Complete blood counts and coagulation profiles were analyzed with automated systems. Hydration was standardized (500 ml water 1 h pre-sampling), and laboratory technicians were blinded to phase assignments. Statistical analysis included paired t-tests and ANOVA with α = 0.05. Results: /L, p = 0.012) mid-month. Clotting time decreased by 33.3% (6.0→4.0 min, p < 0.001). Monocytes increased 106% in young men (p < 0.001). All changes remained within clinical ranges but showed large effect sizes (Cohen's d = 0.42-0.82). Conclusion: Mid-Hijri month coincided with enhanced hemostatic and immune activity, thereby validating prophetic hijama timing. The findings established a physiological framework for lunar chronotherapy, although their generalizability requires validation in diverse populations.

Source: Journal of Taibah University Medical Sciences

DOI: 10.1016/j.jtumed.2025.12.004