What is Cupping? What are its Benefits and How is it Done?

Throughout history, complementary and traditional healing methods have been widely used for various purposes. Cupping, also known as cupping therapy, is one such traditional treatment that has stood the test of time. This therapy involves applying cups to the skin’s surface to create a vacuum, which helps stimulate blood flow and alleviate various ailments. Cupping is known to provide relief from back pain, neck discomfort, headaches, and other medical issues. Practitioners use cups made from materials like glass, bamboo, or plastic, placing them on specific areas of the body for a few minutes to create a suction effect. There are two primary methods of cupping: dry and wet, each with its unique application techniques.

What is Cupping?

Cupping therapy is a traditional healing practice that uses cups of various shapes and sizes, such as balls or bells, to create suction on the skin. This method is also referred to as “cup therapy,” “mug therapy,” or “suction cup therapy.” Historically, materials like bamboo, metal, or animal horns were used, but today, glass and hard plastic (PVC) are more common. Cupping therapy can be categorized into two main types: dry and wet. Additionally, it can be further classified based on application techniques, such as moving cupping, flash cupping, needle cupping, and herbal cupping.

What are the Benefits of Cupping?

Numerous scientific studies have highlighted the positive effects of cupping therapy on both localized and systemic health issues. It is believed that cupping works by enhancing peripheral blood circulation near the skin and boosting the immune system. As a complementary medicine practice, cupping should not replace modern medical treatments but can be used alongside them under professional guidance. Some of the key benefits of cupping therapy include:

• Enhancing blood flow to the skin,
• Improving the skin’s biomechanical properties,
• Raising the pain threshold,
• Boosting metabolism,
• Reducing inflammation,
• Strengthening cellular immunity,
• Altering pain signal mechanisms,
• Stimulating the immune system through localized inflammation,
• Increasing lymphatic flow,
• Lowering uric acid and cholesterol levels,
• Promoting relaxation and overall comfort,
• Relieving muscle tension,
• Detoxifying the body,
• Improving mobility,
• Preventing cardiovascular diseases like atherosclerosis,
• Stimulating the peripheral nervous system,
• Enhancing red blood cell production by altering hemoglobin’s molecular structure.

What Diseases Can Cupping Help With?

Cupping therapy works by drawing blood to specific areas of the body and then removing it through suction. It is commonly used to alleviate pain and manage chronic health conditions. Some of the conditions that cupping therapy may help with include:

• Rheumatoid arthritis and other forms of arthritis,
• Back, neck, knee, and shoulder pain,
• Asthma and respiratory issues,
• Carpal tunnel syndrome,
• Irritable bowel syndrome and gastrointestinal disorders,
• Headaches and migraines,
• Hypertension,
• Anxiety and depression,
• Fibromyalgia,
• Facial paralysis,
• Shingles,
• Lumbar disc herniation,
• Acne,
• Cough,
• Diabetes,
• Allergies,
• Varicose veins.

What are the Best Days for Cupping? When Should it Be Done?

According to traditional beliefs, the best days for cupping therapy are the 17th, 19th, 21st, and 23rd days of the lunar month. These dates are chosen due to the moon’s gravitational pull, which is thought to influence blood circulation. Additionally, cupping is believed to be more effective when performed on an empty stomach. However, these recommendations are based on tradition, and cupping can be done at any time with the approval of a healthcare professional, depending on the individual’s health needs.

How is Cupping Performed?

Cupping therapy can be performed using various methods, and the steps may vary depending on the chosen technique. A trained practitioner places cups on the targeted area for a few minutes. In some methods, the cups are moved around to massage the area. Traditionally, the cups are heated using fire or herbs, and then placed on the skin. As the air inside the cup cools, a vacuum is created, pulling the skin and muscles upward. Modern cupping often uses rubber pumps to create suction instead of heat. The main cupping methods include:

• Dry Cupping: Only suction is applied.
• Wet and Blood Cupping: Suction is combined with controlled medical bleeding.
• Massage and Moving Cupping: Cups are moved across the skin to massage the area.
• Flash Cupping: Cups are quickly applied and removed repeatedly.

Where Can Cupping Be Applied?

Cupping therapy can be administered by various healthcare providers, including doctors, physiotherapists, massage therapists, and acupuncturists. The most common area for cupping is the back, but it can also be applied to the face for cosmetic purposes. Other application areas include the waist, chest, abdomen, hips, calves, and legs. Any redness or marks left by the cups typically fade within a week.

What Should Be Considered Before and After Cupping?

While cupping therapy is generally safe, there are some precautions to keep in mind. Pregnant women, individuals with anemia, hemophilia, cardiovascular diseases, eczema, psoriasis, epilepsy, or those with a history of stroke should avoid cupping. It is essential to consult a healthcare professional before undergoing cupping therapy. To achieve the best results, it is recommended to avoid heavy meals 2-3 hours before the session and to follow a low-protein diet for a day or two before and after the treatment. Additionally, patients should avoid showering for 24 hours post-treatment. Cupping sessions typically last 5-10 minutes, and any redness or bruising usually disappears within a week.

Potential side effects of cupping include mild discomfort, muscle tension, headaches, nausea, itching, scarring, burns, or skin infections. In rare cases, patients may experience a drop in blood pressure or fainting, particularly after wet cupping. It is crucial to inform your doctor if any adverse reactions occur. Proper sterilization of equipment is also vital to prevent the spread of blood-borne diseases like hepatitis B and C.

When is Cupping Performed?

Cupping can be performed at regular intervals based on the patient’s health condition and needs. Traditionally, it is planned according to the lunar calendar, as the moon’s gravitational pull is believed to affect blood circulation. However, modern applications allow for flexibility in timing. Cupping is often recommended in the morning when blood circulation is more balanced. The frequency of sessions can be adjusted based on seasonal changes and the patient’s immune status.

Cupping is not recommended during pregnancy, acute illnesses, or for individuals taking blood thinners. During pregnancy, the body undergoes significant changes, and cupping could disrupt blood pressure or hormone balance. Similarly, during acute conditions like fever or infection, cupping may strain the immune system. For those on blood thinners, the small incisions made during wet cupping could lead to prolonged bleeding. A healthcare professional should evaluate the patient’s medical history before proceeding with cupping therapy.

What are the Cupping Days?

Historically, cupping therapy has been associated with specific days of the lunar calendar, as the moon’s phases are thought to influence blood circulation and toxin removal. The recommended days for cupping are the 17th, 19th, 21st, and 23rd days of the lunar month. These dates are believed to enhance the therapy’s effectiveness. However, modern medicine does not provide scientific evidence to support these traditional beliefs. The timing of cupping can be adjusted based on the patient’s individual health needs and preferences.

Cupping Days 2024

Traditionally, the 17th, 19th, 21st, and 23rd days of the lunar month are considered ideal for cupping. These dates vary each year based on the moon’s phases. Below is a calendar of cupping days for 2024, aligned with the Hijri and Gregorian calendars:

This calendar provides a guide for those who wish to follow traditional cupping practices in 2024. However, it is always advisable to consult a healthcare professional to determine the best timing for your individual needs.