(1) Balancing Yin and Yang
Traditional Chinese medicine believes that the physiological activities of the human body can be summarized and explained by the concept of Yin and Yang. The normal functioning of the human body relies on the harmonious relationship and dynamic balance between Yin and Yang. If this balance is disrupted due to internal or external factors, it can lead to illness. Therefore, restoring the balance of Yin and Yang within the body is crucial for treatment.
Cupping therapy helps to adjust the balance of Yin and Yang through the complementary effects of meridians and acupoints, as well as through the combination with other therapies. For example, cupping on the Guan Yuan acupoint can warm Yang and dispel cold, while cupping on the Da Zhui acupoint can clear excess Yang heat. Similarly, fire cupping can dispel cold, and cupping along the meridians can clear heat. By providing beneficial stimulation to the body and relying on the body's self-regulation system, cupping therapy helps to regulate Yin and Yang, correct imbalances, and restore overall health.
(2) Supporting the Righteous and Expelling the Pathogenic
According to traditional Chinese medicine, the process of disease involves a struggle between pathogenic factors and the body's righteous Qi (vital energy). The righteous Qi has the ability to resist, immunize, repair, and regulate, while the pathogenic factors can cause infection, damage tissues, and disrupt bodily functions. The balance between the righteous and pathogenic factors determines whether or not disease develops. If the body's balance is maintained and the righteous Qi is strong enough to eliminate pathogenic factors, disease can be prevented. On the other hand, if the pathogenic factors are not eliminated in a timely manner, the balance of the body is disrupted, leading to disease. The changes in the strength of the righteous and pathogenic factors are closely related to the progression or regression of the disease. In clinical treatment, the principle of "reducing excess and tonifying deficiency" is followed to expel pathogenic factors and support the righteous Qi. Cupping therapy plays a role in expelling various pathogenic factors from the body while also supporting the righteous Qi. For example, cupping on the local area of shingles blisters and pain (Ah Shi point) can eliminate pathogenic factors, restore the normal flow of Qi and blood, and alleviate pain. Clinical practice has shown that cupping along the meridians is most effective in expelling pathogenic factors.
(3) Promoting Meridian Circulation and Regulating Qi and Blood
Meridians refer to the channels and collaterals that carry Qi and blood throughout the body, connecting the organs, tissues, and senses. They play a vital role in the circulation, propulsion, and warming of blood and Qi. When there is an obstruction or imbalance in the meridians or a deficiency or excess of Qi and blood, it can lead to disease. Therefore, the imbalance of Qi and blood in the meridians is an important factor in the development of diseases. Cupping therapy, based on the principle of the interaction between meridians and related organs in physiology and pathology, promotes the circulation of Qi and blood in the meridians and helps nourish the organs and tissues. It also stimulates the body's ability to expel pathogenic factors and restore health.
(4) Activating Blood Circulation, Dispelling Blood Stasis, Reducing Swelling, and Relieving Pain
Cupping therapy creates a negative pressure on the local area of the acupoints, causing congestion and changes in the tissues, improving blood circulation, and resolving blood stasis. This can help reduce swelling and relieve pain in the local area.
(5) Eliminating Dampness and Cold, Promoting Toxin Excretion, and Alleviating Symptoms
Due to the negative pressure created by cupping therapy, it can help eliminate dampness and cold, promote the discharge of toxins and pus, and relieve symptoms.
