Before You Try Wet Cupping, Read This (Your Blood Might Thank You)
Is Cupping Therapy Worth the Hype? Not If You Have These Blood Issues
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As a medical doctor and an equine therapist, I’m no stranger to conversations about alternative therapies. Friends and family often ask me about cupping therapy—that ancient practice of using suction cups on the skin to promote healing.
I’ve heard everything from glowing endorsements to hesitant curiosity.
But here’s the twist: while cupping therapy might help some people, there are those I firmly advise against trying it.
Why? Because sometimes, what’s good in theory can be risky in practice—especially if you have underlying blood issues.
In this post, I’ll break down what cupping therapy is, the benefits it claims to offer, and why it might not be for everyone. Let’s take a balanced approach and figure out whether this ancient remedy is your cup of tea (or cup of suction?).
What Exactly is Cupping Therapy?
Cupping therapy is a traditional medicine practice that dates back thousands of years, rooted in ancient Chinese, Middle Eastern, and Egyptian cultures. It involves placing cups—made of glass, bamboo, or silicone—on the skin to create suction. The idea is that this suction draws out toxins, improves blood flow, and promotes healing.
There are two main types:
- Dry Cupping: Cups are placed on the skin for a few minutes, creating suction.
- Wet Cupping (Hijama): After the suction, small cuts are made on the skin to draw out a small amount of blood.
It’s touted for everything from back pain relief to reducing migraines, but… is it effective?
The Alleged Benefits of Cupping
Fans of cupping therapy claim it can:
- Relieve Muscle Pain and Tension: By improving blood circulation and loosening tight muscles.
- Reduce Inflammation: The suction is believed to stimulate the immune system.
- Ease Migraines: Some say it can reduce the frequency and severity of headaches.
- Improve Overall Well-being: Many report feeling relaxed and re-energized after a session.
Sounds great, right? But before you hop on the cupping train, there are some serious considerations to keep in mind.
The Red Flags: Why I Don’t Recommend Cupping for Everyone
Despite the potential benefits, cupping isn’t for everyone. If you’re dealing with blood-related issues like anemia, Vitamin D deficiency, or B12 deficiency, cupping can do more harm than good.
Why?
- Anemia: Cupping can remove blood, which you can’t afford to lose if your red blood cell count is already low.
- Vitamin Deficiencies: Low levels of Vitamin B12 and D affect your body’s ability to repair and recover.
- Bleeding Risks: Wet cupping involves making cuts—which isn’t ideal if you have clotting issues.
I often spot potential issues based on physical signs.
If someone has pale skin, brittle nails, frequent fatigue, or shortness of breath, I advise them to get a CBC test (Complete Blood Count) before even considering cupping.
When Migraines Meet Cupping Therapy
As an equine therapist, I’ve worked with clients who deal with persistent migraines. They often ask about cupping therapy as a potential remedy.
While it might offer relief, I always recommend checking their blood health first. If their blood count is low, cupping might worsen their condition instead of improving it.
What to Do Before Cupping Therapy
If you’re considering cupping, here’s a checklist to ensure you’re making a safe choice:
- Get a CBC Test: This will tell you if you have anemia or any blood-related concerns.
- Check Vitamin Levels: Ensure your Vitamin D and B12 levels are within the normal range.
- Consult a Doctor: Discuss your health history before proceeding.
- Stay Hydrated: Good hydration helps your body handle the effects of cupping better.
- Eat a Nutritious Meal: Don’t go in on an empty stomach; it could leave you feeling weak afterward.
Cupping Isn’t One-Size-Fits-All
At the end of the day, cupping therapy can be a useful tool—but only for the right person. If you’re dealing with anemia or deficiencies, it’s a hard pass. Your health is a delicate balance, and sometimes traditional therapies need a modern medical check.
When in doubt, get checked out!
