What is Cupping?
Cupping is an ancient healing method used in many traditions of the world. Ancient tribes utilized animal horns, bamboo, seashells and gourds as suction devices to purge bites, infections and skin lesions from the body. Currently most TCM practitioners use cups made from bamboo, glass or plastic and the clinical applications of cupping have become increasingly wide. The conditions commonly treated with cupping include arthritic symptoms, asthma, common cold, chronic cough, indigestion and some skin conditions. The negative pressure created by the suction stimulates the local acupuncture points, and increases the Qi and blood flow through the meridian. It also helps the body eliminate any pathogenic factors such as wind, cold, damp and heat, so as to detoxify the body and re-balance organ function.
Massage cupping is another way commonly used by practitioners of the western healing arts. Plenty of oil is needed to glide the cups over the skin in a smooth, consistent movement. Massage cupping helps release rigid soft tissue, drains excess fluids and toxins, loosens adhesion, and brings blood and lymph flow to stagnant skin and muscles.