THERAPEUTIC EVALUATION OF ḤIJAMAH BIL SHART IN QILLAT SH'AR (ANDROGENETIC ALOPECIA): A CASE STUDY WITH UNANI AND BIOMEDICAL INSIGHTS

Qillat sh'ar (Androgenetic alopecia, AGA) is a progressive, patterned form of hair loss predominantly influenced by genetic predisposition and hormonal factors. Current pharmacological treatments, such as minoxidil and finasteride, offer variable results and are often associated with undesirable side effects. This has led patients to seek alternative therapeutic options. In the Unani system of medicine, hijāmah bil shart (wet cupping) is a regimental therapy aimed at eliminating morbid humors, purifying the blood, and stimulating local tissue regeneration. This case study presents the outcome of hijāmah bil shart in a 34-year-old male patient diagnosed with AGA. The intervention involved four sessions over 45 days and was assessed through traditional Unani and modern biomedical lenses. Significant improvement was noted in hair texture, reduced shedding, and overall scalp health, without any adverse effects. The findings suggest that hijāmah bil shart may serve as a safe, costeffective, and supportive therapeutic modality for androgenetic alopecia.