Cupping therapy, also known as “Zou Guan” (走罐), involves applying a layer of lubricant such as petroleum jelly or lard to the skin or the rim of the cup before suctioning. The cup is then applied to the selected area of the skin using the flash fire method or the dripping alcohol method. The practitioner holds the cup with the right hand while using the left hand to stretch the skin, moving the cup up, down, or sideways. The cup is moved back and forth over the area until the skin becomes red, congested, or even bruised. This method is suitable for larger areas with substantial muscle, such as the back, waist, hips, and thighs, to relieve symptoms like soreness, numbness, and rheumatic pain. Common clinical methods include:
1. Light Suction and Quick Push, Dispersing Wei Qi to Eliminate Exterior Pathogens:
Light suction involves using a small fire cup to create a suction where the skin is elevated 3-4 mm above the rim of the cup, causing a slight reddening of the skin. Lubricant is then applied, and the cup is moved at a speed of about 30 cm per second.
This method has a light suction force and minimal stimulation, primarily affecting the skin’s function. Therefore, it is most effective when the area treated or the entire body is sweating. The skin is where the meridian system is distributed, and Wei Qi circulates within the skin, playing a role in defending the body against external pathogens. This technique provides suitable stimulation to the skin, promoting Wei Qi and eliminating exterior pathogens. It is particularly effective for conditions like exterior wind-cold (often focusing on the Taiyang skin area) and numbness due to skin obstruction (when combined with local treatment).
2. Strong Suction and Quick Push, Unblocking Meridians and Regulating Qi and Blood:
Strong suction involves creating a suction where the skin is elevated more than 8 mm above the rim of the cup, resulting in a purplish-red color of the skin. Castor oil is then applied to the treated area, and the cup is moved at a speed of about 30 cm per second. Generally, large or medium fire cups are used for the abdomen and back, while small fire cups are used for the limbs.
This method has a strong suction force and significant stimulation, primarily affecting the meridians and influencing Qi and blood through the skin and acupoints, thereby regulating the functions of the internal organs. It is suitable for treating certain disorders related to meridian and organ imbalances, often focusing on acupoints on the back or the skin of the abdominal meridians.
3. Strong Suction and Slow Push, Driving Out Stagnant Cold and Nourishing Muscles:
After strong suction (as previously described), castor oil is applied to the skin, and the cup is moved at a speed of 2-3 cm per second until the skin appears purplish-red. Large or medium fire cups are used for the back and abdomen, while small fire cups are used for the limbs.
This technique provides the maximum stimulation, capable of drawing out stagnant cold and dampness from the internal organs and meridians through the skin and acupoints, while also providing a massage effect on the local muscles, promoting the nourishment of Qi and blood to the muscles. The primary areas for cupping are along the Du Mai (督脉), back acupoints, and the Taiyang skin area, utilizing the warming effect to stimulate Yang Qi and expel stagnant cold.
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