By Danisha Bogue, L.Ac. - July 13, 2021
Categories: Cupping

Cupping is a Traditional Chinese Medicine that dates back thousands of years. Small glass cups are used to produce suction when placed on the skin. With glass cups, the suction is generally obtained by using a cotton ball that’s been soaked in alcohol and lit on fire to draw the oxygen out of the cup. The cotton ball is removed, and the cup is then placed on the skin, and as it cools it produces suction.

Once the cups are suctioned to the skin, they can be kept in place or gently moved. White cupping is used to increase health, it is quite relaxing and pleasant.

So how does it work?

The suction created by the cup draws your skin and tissues upward, which causes your blood vessels to expand, and stimulates your lymphatic system. In this way it can trigger your body to react as though you have an injury, bringing fresh blood and oxygen to the area and promoting healing. It also has the effect of clearing stagnant blood and damaged cells from the area, while facilitating the flow and balance of qi throughout the body.

What is cupping good for?

Cupping has proven very useful for the treatment of pain, both from injuries and conditions (such as arthritis and fibromyalgia) as well as general soreness from exercise. Because of it’s effect on the circulatory and lymphatic systems, it’s also very useful for things like skin issues (drawing out toxins and promoting blood flow to the skin), digestive issues, and high blood pressure.

In addition to improving the function of your physical body, cupping also benefits the immune system. Injury recovery (as imitated by cupping) is an immune response which means that cupping can assist in recovery from viruses and respiratory issues. In fact, Traditional Chinese Medicine has used it for thousands of years to treat pulmonary issues like pneumonia.

Cupping can be useful in treating these conditions:

  • Acne
  • Allergy & Asthma
  • Anxiety & Depression
  • Arthritis
  • Cold & Flu
  • Digestive Issues
  • Fever
  • High Blood Pressure
  • Pain
  • Respiratory Issues
  • Rheumatic Diseases
  • Sinus Issues
  • Skin Issues
  • Sports Recovery

Is it dangerous?

Nope! Some people will end up with some red or purple circles on the skin where the cups were applied, but those should go away withing a few days. When there is stagnation in an area, blood pools in the fascia (connective tissues). Cupping lifts and stretches the fascia, so this pooled blood can rise to the surface of the skin. In other words, it’s a sign that the cupping is working.

Some people also get something of a head rush from the treatment, and maybe a little dizzy as well. But for the most part, it’s just nice and relaxing. Patients can even see immediate pain relief is some cases.

And just to make a good thing better, I can also use a full spectrum phyto-nutrient rich CBD salve! Topical CBD is proven to help relieve pain and soreness, reduce inflammation, and sooth inflammatory skin conditions such as psoriasis, dermatitis, and eczema. And to top it off, I only use premium, locally grown CBD salve that contains NO preservatives or artificial additives. You’re welcome.

So, is anything bothering you? Maybe some cupping will do you good!