Cupping therapy, an ancient healing modality, involves placing cups on the skin to create suction. This suction draws up the skin and superficial muscle layer, promoting blood flow, reducing inflammation, and fostering relaxation. While its precise origins are debated, evidence suggests its practice in ancient Egypt, China, and the Middle East, highlighting its long-standing role in traditional medicine systems.
The practice of cupping therapy has evolved over centuries, resulting in various techniques. Dry cupping, the most common method, involves placing heated or air-pumped cups on the skin. Traditionally, heat was used to create a vacuum within glass cups. Modern practitioners often employ plastic cups with valves and a handheld pump to achieve the desired suction level. Cups are typically left in place for 5 to 10 minutes.