Have you heard about cupping therapy? This alternative therapeutic method has become quite popular among athletes in the past few years, but it’s not so known to the public. Experts suggest cupping was used in China ever since 3000 BC. It was probably due to its health benefits that managed to stand the test of time, unlike many other alternative methods.
What is Cupping Therapy?
It is an alternative therapeutic method whose purpose is to remove negative energy from your body. A therapist places specific heated glass or plastic cups on a certain skin area, which creates suction.
The suction, in turn, brings the blood to the surface of your skin in that area. This process is not painful at all, but the only side effects you’ll get are bruises.
Health Benefits of Cupping Therapy
Now that you know how to do this unique therapy, it’s time to learn what benefits you’ll get from it. You might be surprised when you read that certain benefits can even outweigh some modern medicine techniques. Here are the best advantages of cupping therapy:
1. No Side Effects
The first great thing about cupping is that it has no side effects. It’s an alternative method to acupuncture and massages, so it doesn’t pose any risk as opposed to most medications. The only bad thing is that it creates bruises, and nothing else.
2. Pain Reliever
Cupping therapy offers what most people ask for – pain relief. This is, in fact, the reason why a lot of people choose alternative methods to reduce their pain, and being a completely safe method, cupping is the ideal choice for this.
The Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine Journal has reported that this alternative therapy can do the following things:
- Reduce lower back pain
- Soothe pain related to respiratory conditions
- Reduce pain associated with cancer treatments
- Relax the stiff neck and tense muscles
- Reduce migraine occurrence
- Improve rheumatism
- Help with muscle cramps, fatigue, and scar tissue
3. Relaxation
This alternative therapeutic method has calming effects on the central nervous system. Therefore, it can effectively reduce stress responses, thus preventing the development of depression and anxiety.
4. Skin Benefits
Some of the skin benefits you’ll get from cupping therapy include:
- Reduced cellulite
- Effective in the treatment of herpes zoster
- Toned and firmer skin
- Acne removal
Moreover, this method can improve your digestion and immune system. So, it doesn’t have to be just a celebrity fad treatment.
Note: Be careful with cupping therapy if you have edema, skin ulcers, or you’re pregnant since some people can bleed easily. Also, make sure you go to a licensed acupuncturist!
Source Total Health Guidance | WebMD