Cupping has been used in China since the third century B. C. It involves lighting a match in a small, round "cup" made of glass, bamboo, ceramic, or metal, or small jar, and removing it quickly and applying the cup to the skin. The flame creates a partial vacuum, and the cup sticks tightly to the skin. Several cups may be applied at any one time to a particular part of the body, such as the low back. Sometimes, a needle is inserted and then a cup applied over it.
The jars are left in position for 10 to 15 minutes while the vacuum inside the cup produces strong suction on the skin and increases the blood flow and circulation.
The cup is released by pressing the skin next to the edge of the cup so the vacuum is broken.
A small bruise will result. Do not worry as this is necessary for the desirable therapeutic effect.
Cupping is particularly helpful for conditions such as rheumatism, lumbago, stiff neck and shoulders as it increases circulation and the mobility of affected areas.
