Types
of Cupping
Weak
to Medium Cupping (Tonifying)
This method is intended to remove stagnation and tonify weak chi
and blood without depleting energy of frail or compromised persons.
Any heat/fire suction used is less intense- when applying to skin
surface.
Strong
Cupping (Drainage-focused)
The suction in this method is the firmest and can actually drain
energies, manipulate significant amounts of blood, lymph-often
leaving visible "markings" i.e. (a hickey) on the skin,
not a rupture or bruising like in true injuries. The Western term
for this is petechia, a slight subcutaneous discharge of blood
from the vessels. These discolorations can take a few hours or
even two weeks in extreme stagnation and toxicity. As treatments
accumulate, marks tend to occur less.
Moving/Glide
Cupping
Most easily done on larger areas of the body, this helps conditions
such as inflammation, acne, or similar lesion states. Working
around an open wound/sore, this can be most helpful for painful,
swollen joints by relocating excess fluids to the surface levels.
Needle
Cupping (Draining)
This is typically offered by acupuncturists for knee/elbow joints
or other qualifying symptom states. Specialized training is a
must as the skin is "opened" and scope of practice and
safety /hygiene is the concern.
Moxa
(Hot Needle) Cupping
Moxa is a warming herb often used by acupuncturists for "Cold"
syndromes such as the flu /common cold, and pain (arthritis).
This herb or blend can tonify blood and chi thereby improving
the overall constitution.
Empty/Flash
Cupping
This can be a medium to strong method with short treatment. Empty
cupping is used to raise the immune system in weak, frail, or
children's bodies. Rapid transfer from body segments is one such
application---keeping the cups going from one area on to the next
area, repeating as needed.
Full
Bleeding/Wet Cupping
Common in Europe and Asia, well trained and qualified providers
can purge "foul", toxic, sticky, congealing, low oxygenated
blood -considered the cause of disease processes. It is used for
many reasons beyond this site explanation. Very strict sanitation/universal
precautions are expected. The frequency can vary depending on
symptom picture and health history, and client comfort/compliance
with pre and post treatment instructions.
Herbal
Cupping
This method is generally offered when stiffness and aching occurs
(asthma/ colds/cough). Bamboo cups can readily soak in herbal
preparations, keep in heat from flame source and offer some flexibility
on skin due to unique fiber composition.
Water
Cupping
This also involves a very experienced provider since it involves
filling a glass or bamboo cup one-third full with warm water.
It is purported to help a variety of conditions.
Ventosa/Bentosa
Cupping (Fire/flame method)
This is also called Filipino cupping whereas a tiny lit candle
(tea light) is placed on skin. A regular drinking glass in then
placed over the lit flame. This seals the skin, supplies negative
pressure, flame is now extinguished and the skin is pulled up.
One can glide or leave glass in place as "parked". This
can be a viable home- style method for immediate needs. Always
use supervision and caution with fire and heat !!!
There are more methods (saline cupping) from other countries and
many testimonials to the rapid benefits of cupping.
Olympic athletes and celebrities alike have proclaimed the true
value of modern day cupping treatments.
I welcome your questions or concerns. A free (15 minute) meet
and greet can help you "feel" what these cups can do
for you.
