Cupping is another ancient Chinese form of alternative medicine. The first practice is believed being started from the beginning of 3000 B.C. the same type of treatment with different methods and names are also found in other countries including Egypt and Arabic. Cupping is also known with several names including baguan, banki, bentusa, kyukaku, Hijamah, singhi and others. In China, this treatment is usually combined with acupuncture and herbal therapy. The technique involves the cup that is filled with warm air, placed the open end down on the part of the body.
There are two forms of cupping commonly used. The first one is wet cupping that offers benefits to increase blood flow and speed up the toxin removal from the body. The second form is dry cupping. The suction is created using the fire (heat) or mechanical devices (hand or electrical pumps). The used cup is usually made of glass, metal or hardwood. If it uses heat for the treatment, the common flammable substance used is paper, alcohol or a mixture of herbs. There are many health problems that can be healed with this cupping treatment. They are including lung diseases, pain, gastrointestinal disorders, limbs and paralysis. Although this method is one of alternative treatments to choose from, not everyone can take the advantage of it. Cupping should be done on fleshy areas of the body and not recommended to be applied on inflamed skin or abdominal and lower back during pregnancy. This therapy affects the body up to 4 inches into the tissues and promotes them to release toxins, activate the lymphatic system, activate and clear veins, arteries and capillaries, clear colon blockages, improve the appearance of varicose veins, activate the skin and clear stretch marks.
Cupping has been popularly used as alternative medicine too nowadays. However, it is important for patients to consult it first to the specialist before taking the treatment. It is important to prevent side effects like mild discomfort, bruises, burns and skin infections. The used of cups must be hygienic too.
