14/01/2025
Cupping or ventosa
- a traditional therapeutic practice that involves placing cups on the skin to create suction. It is used in various cultures, notably in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and in Middle Eastern and Eastern European healing practices. The cups can be made of glass, bamboo, or silicone, and suction is created either by heating the air inside the cup or using a mechanical pump.
There are two main types of cupping:
1. Dry Cupping: Just the suction is used, with no incisions made on the skin.
2. Wet Cupping (Hijama): A more invasive form, where small cuts are made on the skin before the cups are applied to draw out blood.
Cupping is believed to help improve circulation, relieve muscle tension, and promote healing by enhancing the flow of “qi” (energy) in TCM. It is often used for pain management, respiratory issues like asthma or bronchitis, and to improve skin health. The marks left by cupping can sometimes look like bruises, but they generally fade within a few days.
While cupping has a long history and anecdotal evidence of benefits, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional before trying cupping, especially if you have skin conditions or other underlying health concerns.
