Cupping Therapy

Cupping therapy is an ancient Chinese Medicine therapy in which a cup is applied to the skin and the pressure in the cup is reduced (either by heat or suction) in order to draw and hold skin and superficial muscles inside the cup. Cupping therapy is one of the best deep-tissue therapies available and it is frequently used after acupuncture, blood letting, or plum blossom treatment.

Acupuncturist working on patient

Acupuncturist working on patient

What are the advantages of Cupping Therapy?

Cupping therapy can affect the body up to four inches into the tissues, causing the tissues to release toxins, activate the lymphatic system, clear colon blockages, activate and clear the veins, arteries and capillaries, activate the skin, clear stretch marks, and improve the appearance of varicose veins.

It can also loosen muscles, encourage blood flow, and sedate the nervous system (which makes it an excellent treatment for high blood pressure). 

Read more in our article- 5 benefits of Cupping Therapy. 

This treatment is also valuable for the lungs, and can clear congestion from a common cold or help to control a person’s asthma.

How does Cupping Therapy work?

Glass cups are generally used for cupping therapy, although bamboo cups are also used. Cups are generally left in place for ten minutes although the time can range from five to fifteen minutes. The skin will redden due to the congestion of blood flow. Cupping  is applied to certain acupuncture points as well as to parts of the body that have been affected by pain, where the pain is deeper than the tissues to be pulled. Cupping therapy has greater emphasis on the back acupuncture due to the ease with which it can be performed on the back. Cupping therapy is based on the meridian theory of the body. 

On one hand, cupping therapy removes any stagnation in the body and opens the meridians so that qi can flow freely. On the other, it also helps to rejuvenate certain meridians and organs that are not functioning at their best. From a scientific standpoint, cupping is known to help activate the lymphatic system, promote blood circulation, and is good for deep tissue repair.

What can Cupping Therapy treat?

Cupping is generally recommended for the treatment of:

  • Back and neck Pains
  • Stiff muscles
  • Paralysis
  • Gastrointestinal disorders
  • Lung diseases (especially chronic cough and asthma)
  • Anxiety
  • Fatigue
  • Migraines
  • Rheumatism