Cupping Therapy

Cupping is an ancient technique used in nations around the world as a cure for many diseases and as a way to maintain good health. It is an important part of traditional Sufi/Islamic medicine, Chinese medicine and Aryuvedic medicine. Documentation of its use in Ancient Egypt was found on one of the oldest historical Egyptian papyruses. Cupping is and has been widely used in China, India, Europe, Africa, and the Middle East.

What is Cupping?

Cupping uses suction to bring toxic blood, phlegm, and other material to the surface of the body. Your body then discharges it naturally in the days that follow. It is wonderful for many internal conditions, as well as tight muscles. It is recommended to receive cupping regularly, on a monthly or yearly basis, to maintain your good health. It is also beneficial to receive it as the need arises.

Benefits of Cupping

Cupping can help with the health conditions listed below.

Types of Cups and their Application

I use two types of cups: glass and plastic.

To apply glass cups I hold the cup is held above the body, wave a flame underneath of it quickly, and then immediately place the cup on the skin. To apply plastic cups I use a hand pump to suck the air out of the cup. This is known as "dry cupping."

Cupping Techniques

I primarily use these 6 types of cupping:

Bleeding cupping (or "wet cupping"): Sterile cups are applied as described above ("dry cupping") and removed after 3 minutes. The area for cupping is cleaned with iodine, and 3 small, superficial incisions are made. The cup is re-applied for 3-8 minutes. Then the cup is removed, the incisions are cleaned, and a bandage is applied.

This is my favorite technique, and it was favored by all of the early cupping practitioners. Bleeding cupping was practiced by the Prophet Abraham, peace be upon him, and he passed this knowledge on to his sons. The Prophets Moses, Aaron, Solomon and David, peace be upon them, also practiced bleeding cupping.

Generally, it is best to receive this type of cupping on the 17th day, 19th day, or 21st day of the lunar month. It is well known that during the middle of the lunar cycle that toxic energies are agitated and in their most accessible phase.

Additionally, the best time of day to receive cupping is 2:00 pm - 3:00 pm, because at this time toxic blood is closest to the surface of the body. It is also fine to receive cupping in the morning or at other times of day if necessary. I adjust my schedule as much as possible to accommodate these days and times each month.

Tonifying cupping: The cups are applied as described above ("dry cupping") and left on for 5-10 minutes. This technique helps fatigue and energizes your immune system.

Draining cupping: The cups are applied as described above ("dry cupping") and left on for up 10-20 minutes. This technique drains tension and stuck energy.

Moving cupping: The entire back is lightly oiled, and the cups are applied as described above ("dry cupping") . I move the cups along your back while the suction is in place. This feels like a warm, relaxing massage. This technique drains tension and stuck energy over a wide area.

Flash cupping: The cups are applied as above ("dry cupping") and immediately removed. This is done multiple times in different areas all over the back. This technique expels a cold or flu in its beginning stages.

Needle and moxa cupping: An acupuncture needle is inserted with or without moxa (Chinese mugwort) on the handle. After the moxa burns down and the needle is warm, the cup is applied as described above ("dry cupping") . This technique is excellent for warming cold or arthritic joints.

Preparation for Cupping

It is best to take a shower immediately before receiving cupping. If you cannot shower, it is important to rest for 1 hour before cupping. For your convenience, we have showers for your use at our acupuncture center.

Make sure you're not too hungry or too full when you arrive for the treatment. Also, it is important to stay hydrated by drinking water before and after the treatment

What to Expect

Cupping is painless - many people report feeling very relaxed during and after cupping. You may feel a warm, pulling or stretching sensation.

At your first session, each cup will stay on for 10-20 minutes.

You will probably have a ring-mark, bruise, or skin discoloration for several days (maximum for a week or two) after cupping. These are signs of toxicity that has risen to the surface for release. As the marks dissipate, the toxicity is leaving you. If you receive cupping as a stand-alone treatment, your first session lasts up to 1 hour, and subsequent sessions last 30-45 minutes.

After 1st time cupping

To Make an Appointment

Call 404-863-9900 or click here.