A Very Brief History of Cupping

Even though the origin of cupping therapy remains in obscurity, the earliest record of this technique was written in the Ebers Papyrus (one of the oldest medical textbooks in the world) and describes that in 1550 B.C. Egyptians used cupping.

Archeologists have found evidence in China of cupping dating back to 1000 B.C. In ancient Greece, Hippocrates (c. 400 B.C.) used cupping in his 'Handbook of Prescriptions for Emergencies' in 300 A.D. This method spread into medicine throughout Asian and European civilizations. Cupping was used by Celts, Turks, Slavic's, Mayans, Aztecs, Native Indians and by healers throughout the Far & Middle East.   

This traditional therapy is a time honored treatment that remains favored by millions of people worldwide because it is safe, comfortable and remarkably effective for many health disorders.
 

How Does Cupping Work?

Traditionally cups are lined up on the back and left in place to clear stagnation and toxins in the body. 

Massage cupping is a modern adaptation of the ancient art of cupping therapy. By creating suction and negative pressure, cupping is used to release tight fascia, muscles and adhesions to effectively decrease pain in the body, drain excess fluids and toxins through the lymphatic system, and increase blood flow to stagnant muscles and skin and reduce inflammation in the tissues. 

The intended suction can range from light to heavy. It is versatile and can easily be modified to accomplish a range of techniques, from lymphatic drainage to deep tissue release. 

Cupping is also calming for the nervous system, so deep relaxation is often felt. 
 

Benefits That Have Been Reported:

Musculoskeletal

• Relieves muscular tension

• Release stuck restricted fascia

• Relieves inflammation, pain and stiffness in the joints

• Improves flexibility and range of motion

Skin & Scar Tissue

• Release and soften scar tissue and adhesions

• Tones the skin

• Decreases cellulite

Digestive & Reproductive Systems

• Abdominal cupping stimulates the reproductive and digestive systems

Central Nervous System

• Relieves anxiety and insomnia by relaxing and calming the nervous system

Circulatory, Lymphatic & Immune Function

• Strengthens the immune system by promoting the flow of lymphatic fluid

• Increases circulation to nourish skin and muscle tissue

• Stimulates the tissues to release toxins

• Relieves respiratory inflammation

• Relieves migraines and tension headaches

• Increases the flow of energy in the body

• Dispels congestion and other cold symptoms
  

What are the marks left after cupping therapy?

The marks that are commonly left after a treatment are the result of stagnant blood, lymph and toxins being pulled to the surface. The marks are not bruises. They will fade as the toxins and blood pulled from within the muscles and tissues are flushed out of the system, on average between 1 to 4 days. When the tissues have been constricted for a long time, the marks can stay about a week or longer.

Usually a mark will not re-occur in the same spot when a series of regular sessions are applied. After the stagnant blood/fluid is removed, better circulation is promoted and toxins are able to leave the body.

Drinking plenty of water will help facilitate the removal of these waste products from your system.