What Is Chinese Magnetic Suction Cupping?

Suction cupping is part of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). Originally, cattle horns were used as "cups" as an alternative form to surgery. The idea behind cupping is to emit heat through the cups, using the negative pressure, to suck or absorb toxins from the skin, thereby relaxing rigid muscles and tissues and stimulating blood circulation. Today, cupping has evolved from the simple cattle horns to the use of magnetic products; however, it still retains the principle of alternative healing.

Identification

• Magnetic suction cups are individual cups with a squeezable vacuum bulb attached on top. Each cup contains a magnetic tip or "needle" inside.

Function

• The principle behind using magnetic needles is to realign the orientation of the north and south poles in the body in order to create an equal, balanced stimulation using acupressure points.

Feature

• Magnetic suction cupping does not involve piercing the skin. The magnetic tip stays within the cup and stays fixed on the skin.

Consideration

• Temporary purple cup markings on the skin are normal after the therapy session and disappear within a couple of days.

Treatment

• Many use this alternative treatment to heal various ailments including common colds, muscle aches, asthma, insomnia and even to aid in weight loss.