Cupping originated in China and is still used in many parts of Europe including Turkey, Greece, France and Italy. It removes external pathogens from the body, such as Wind, Cold or Damp, and helps qi and blood that is stuck to move freely again. Cupping will often be used if you have joint and muscle problems and is also commonly used for head colds.
Cups can be made of glass, plastic or bamboo. Before a cup is placed on the skin, a vacuum is first created by placing a lighted taper quickly in the cup and removing it. The vacuum inside the cup creates suction and draws Qi and Blood to the surface, allowing the release of any blocked pathogens. Cups with suction pumps can also be used, rather than creating a vacuum with a flame.