AURANGABAD: The Aurangabad Zilla Parishad has become the first local self-governing body in the state to officially introduce Unani cupping therapy at the dispensary level.
Found beneficial in treating musculoskeletal disorders, the therapy, known as hijama or mahaajim in Unani, has been introduced as a part of the National AYUSH Mission.
Aurangabad district AYUSH officer Dr Shaikh Shakeel said a designated dispensary at Juna Bazaar area of the city will be offering the therapy from Thursday.
“Unani cupping therapy is used in treating patients of sciatica, spondylolysis and general muscle pain related ailments in the human body. A health check-up of the patient will be carried out before offering the therapy,” he said.
While the cost of the therapy runs into thousands of rupees at select private places, it will be available at a token price of Rs 2 per patient, authorities said.
As per the National Health Portal, Unani cupping therapy is used as a method of regimental therapies, in which a local suction is created on the skin to mobilise the blood flow in order to promote healing or to cure diseases.
As a part of the treatment, the skin is basically gently drawn upwards by creating a vacuum in a cup over the target area of the body in order to offer relief to patients.
While few of the state-run district, sub-district and rural hospitals have staff qualified in Unani medicine, Aurangabad is the first to introduce the ancient treatment at a dispensary level, health authorities said.
Considering the pandemic situation, the therapy will be offered on every Thursday and service days will be extended gradually in future, it was said.
