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Civilization Object No. 101
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Cupping Therapy

拔罐

An ancient suction therapy using heated cups to increase blood flow, relieve pain, and promote healing — now globally recognized.

dna Heritage DNA
history Origin

Han Dynasty (202 BCE–220 CE)

category Domain

traditional medicine

verified Level

National Heritage

pin_drop Region

North China

pulse Status

active

Cupping therapy (baguan) is a traditional Chinese medical treatment where heated glass or bamboo cups are placed on the skin to create suction. The suction increases blood circulation, relieves muscle tension, and promotes healing. Practiced since the Han Dynasty, cupping was historically used for treating respiratory conditions, pain, and stagnation disorders. Modern versions use vacuum pumps alongside traditional fire cupping, and the therapy gained global visibility after appearing in international sports competitions.

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Skills & Techniques

Cupping Therapy Technique expand_more

The therapeutic practice of creating suction on the skin using heated cups to stimulate blood flow and relieve pain.

Steps

  1. Select appropriate cup sizes (glass, bamboo, or silicone) for different body areas
  2. Prepare the suction: for fire cupping, insert a flame briefly into the cup
  3. Apply the cup to the skin and adjust suction strength
  4. Leave cups in place for 5–15 minutes depending on the condition
  5. Remove cups by releasing the vacuum seal gently
  6. Clean and disinfect cups after each use and apply soothing balm to the skin

Tools

glass cups (various sizes), bamboo cups, alcohol lamp, cotton balls, forceps, towel

Materials

medical-grade alcohol, herbal balm, cotton, silicone cups

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Relationship Constellation

This heritage item connects to 7 entities across the atlas — masters, places, festivals, and stories.

pin_drop Beijing location build Cupping Therapy Technique skill person Acupuncture and Moxibustion ich person Tuina Massage ich person Han Dynasty dynasty person North China region person Guasha Scraping Therapy ich
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