Cupping

Cupping is a traditional healing treatment in which suction cups are placed on different body areas. Practitioners believe that the technique supports energy (Qi) flow within the body and balances the positive and negative energies.

It is generally divided into two main kinds: wet and dry cupping. In dry cupping, only suction is applied, while in wet cupping, your skin is punctured before the application of cups.

What are the benefits of cupping?

Promotes blood circulation

Blood circulation increases in the area where cups are applied. It helps with muscle cell repair and growth. It also lessens muscle tension in the area. What’s more, the increased blood circulation can also reduce the appearance of cellulite that makes your skin look uneven or bumpy.

Relieves pain

Wet cupping and other forms of cupping are popularly used to treat arthritis pain, headache, migraine, back pain, neck and shoulder pain. A 2018 review of several studies claims that cupping can effectively treat chronic back pain in elders. A 2018 study also proved its usefulness in reducing neck pain.

May treat skin conditions

Cupping can reduce symptoms of acne, herpes zoster and a few other skin conditions. A 2018 review studied 64 research papers and concluded that cupping therapy reduced increased muscle activity; as a result, the pain that herpes zoster and acne patients feel declined. They also noticed reduction in redness and pimple appearance on the skin of acne patients.

Releases toxins

Your kidneys and livers are the main organs in the body that help in toxins removal. However, our modern lifestyle can stress these organs. Supporting them with wet cupping can help you keep your livers and kidneys working effectively for longer.

As mentioned earlier, cupping increases blood circulation. The improved blood circulation releases the accumulated toxins through the lymphatic system, and you feel fresh and lighter.

Reduces skin scars or stretch marks

Cupping can accelerate the healing power of your skin. It can reduce the appearance of stretch marks and scars even in areas that are far away from the applied cups.

What should I expect from a session?

Your practitioner will learn about your health condition and the possible symptoms you are experiencing to determine where they should apply the cups. You will lie down or maybe sit on a comfy table or chair. The practitioner will start applying cups in suitable areas. Cups are suctioned, and you start feeling a sucking sensation. Practitioners either use modern rubber pumps or heat to create suction.

The practitioner may leave you during the procedure and come back when they have to remove cups. The cups are mostly removed in 5 to 10 minutes. You may feel a little bruising at the site where cups were applied. It will disappear on its own within a few days.

Summary

Cupping is an ancient technique people have been using for hundreds of years to boost their immune system, increase blood circulation and decrease pain. More and more clinical research is emerging and supporting the effectiveness of this treatment.

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