Cupping
What is cupping?
Cupping is a Traditional Chinese Medicine technique; it is one kind of treatment developed by the ancient Chinese in the struggle against disease and is an important component in the non-drug therapies of TCM. It uses a cup as its tool, either bamboo, glass or plastic and expels air in the cup by burning, suction and other methods, to form a negative pressure, anchoring the cup over the treated site of the body to achieve the goal of preventing and treating diseases, and strengthening the body.
Cupping therapy, after thousands of years of development, perfection and improvement, has been accepted by more and more people. Since the field of application of cupping therapy is wide, its efficacy is good, its cost is low, and its characteristics of easy operation and safety without side effects, it is now called a new “natural therapy in the 21st century”, and very popular with users worldwide.
What are the benefits?
Dredging the channels and activating vital energy (Qi) and blood circulation: Cupping brings fresh blood to the area. So it tends to improve circulation. Most commonly, it is used for aches and pains of various types. It has a remarkable effect on stiff and aching muscles, activating secretion of synovial fluids releasing joint stiffness. It’s also good for respiratory problems, coughs and wheezing. If there is back pain, asthma or a bruise, you can suck it out, even in one treatment sometimes. The cupping method has the function of warming and promoting the free flow of Qi and blood in the channels dispelling cold dampness and diminishing swellings and pains.
Are there any side effects?
Cupping is a fantastic form of therapy. The practitioner does not penetrate the skin; however it can cause bad discoloration of the skin where the cup has been. You may get a temporary big red or purple mark on the skin.
