Hossein Kheirandish: Traditional Medicine Controversies, Cupping Research Institute, University Dispute and Arrest

5. The Claim That Hijama Can Increase Children’s Height

A further controversy emerged in December 2025.

Factnameh examined a claim attributed to Kheirandish suggesting that a particular form of hijama could increase the height of children and adolescents.

According to the claim, the procedure could potentially produce several centimeters of additional height in certain individuals.

The statement attracted attention because childhood and adolescent growth is a major concern for many families.

Parents frequently seek reliable information about factors affecting height, including nutrition, genetics, sleep, hormones, and physical development.

However, there is no credible clinical evidence establishing that cupping therapy increases a child’s final adult height.

Human growth is influenced by several biological factors, including genetics, growth hormones, nutritional status, general health, and the development of growth plates in bones.

Medical assessment of unusual growth patterns may involve evaluating nutritional deficiencies, hormonal conditions, and other underlying health issues.

Factnameh classified the specific height-increase claim as unsupported.

This episode reinforced the distinction between traditional practices used for cultural or complementary purposes and treatments presented as scientifically established medical interventions.

November 8, 2026 | 5:18 pm