Cupping is one of the oldest methods of Traditional Chinese Medicine. The earliest recorded use of cupping dates to the early fourth century. Originally, practitioners would use hollowed-out animal horns for cups, and place them over particular acupuncture points or meridians. Today, most acupuncturists use cups made of thick glass or plastic, although bamboo, iron and pottery cups are still used in other countries. Glass cups are the preferred method of delivery, because they do not break as easily as pottery or deteriorate like bamboo, and they allow the acupuncturist to see the skin and evaluate the effects of treatment.
In a typical cupping session, glass cups are warmed. Burning a substance inside the cup removes all of the oxygen, which creates a vacuum. In China, cupping is used primarily to treat respiratory conditions such as bronchitis, asthma, and congestion; arthritis; gastrointestinal disorders and pain. Some practitioners also use cupping to treat depression and to reduce inflammation. Fleshy sites on the body, such as the back and stomach (and, to a lesser extent, the arms and legs), are the preferred sites for treatment. In addition to the traditional form of cupping described above, which is known as “dry” cupping, some practitioners also use what, is called “wet” or “air” cupping. In “air” cupping, instead of using a flame to heat the cup, the cup is applied to the skin, and a suction pump is attached to the rounded end of the jar. The pump is then used to create the vacuum. In “wet” cupping, the skin is punctured before treatment. When the cup is applied and the skin is drawn up, a small amount of blood may flow from the puncture site, which is believed to help remove harmful substances and toxins from the body. Faye does not personally use the wet cupping technique.
Cupping can leave marking to the skin which usually disappears within a few days. This is a good sign and the marking indicates that a pathogen is clearing from the body. Cupping may be incorporated into your personalised treatment plan. Patients experience cupping to be very soothing, relaxing and enjoyable. If cupping is suggested as part of your healing process Faye will explain the process fully during every consult so that you feel involved and comfortable at every moment of your healing journey.
More