Cupping therapy, also known as "hacamat" in Turkish, is a traditional treatment method commonly practiced in Turkey, China, and Middle Eastern countries. The purpose of cupping therapy is to remove impure blood from the body through a vacuum technique, thus assisting in improving one's health. Cupping therapy has been practiced for centuries and is widely used in non-clinical settings, although it is crucial to ensure it is performed in a sterile and safe environment like a hospital or clinic to avoid complications.
What is Cupping Therapy?
Cupping therapy, or "hacamat," is a traditional treatment method aimed at removing impure blood from the body through a vacuum technique, thereby promoting physical and mental health. This treatment method, performed with a special cupping glass, has been practiced for centuries in various regions including Turkey.
How is Cupping Therapy Performed?
Cupping therapy involves the following steps:
- Preparation: Necessary materials such as cupping glasses, alcohol or antiseptic solution, cotton, sterile needles, dressing materials, and a vacuum pump are gathered.
- Cleaning the Area: The area where cupping will be applied is cleaned with alcohol or another antiseptic solution.
- Creating Vacuum: A cupping glass is placed on the skin, and the air inside is vacuumed. This causes the blood vessels on the skin surface to dilate, drawing blood towards the surface.
- Making Incisions: After leaving the vacuumed cupping glass on the skin for a few minutes, it is removed, and small incisions are made with sterile needles or a scalpel. Impure blood flows out through these incisions. The vacuuming process may be repeated to draw out more blood. Once bleeding stops, the cup is removed, and the area is cleaned to complete the treatment.
Cupping therapy usually takes around 30 minutes and should be performed by a trained professional in a hygienic and sterile environment.
Benefits of Cupping Therapy
The benefits of cupping therapy include:
- Reducing muscle tension and alleviating pain.
- Improving blood circulation.
- Strengthening the immune system.
- Acting preventively against illnesses.
- Removing impure blood from the body.
- Calming the individual and alleviating insomnia.
- Beneficial effects on skin problems.
- Assisting in tissue regeneration.
- Relieving migraines.
- Positive effects on the digestive and circulatory systems.
- Bringing vitality to the body, resulting in a younger and fresher appearance.
Individuals considering alternative treatment methods like cupping therapy should consult a healthcare professional first. For detailed information about cupping therapy in Izmir, you can contact our clinic. Our experts will provide you with the most suitable treatment.
Risks of Cupping Therapy
Along with its benefits, cupping therapy can have some risks, especially when performed in a non-sterile environment. Potential side effects include:
- Formation of marks on the skin.
- Redness.
- Irritation.
- Bruising.
- Burn-like appearance.
- Infection (if the procedure is done in a non-sterile environment).
What Conditions Does Cupping Therapy Benefit?
Cupping therapy can be beneficial for conditions such as insomnia, depression, back pain, neck and shoulder pain, migraines, excessive nervousness, high blood pressure, rheumatic diseases, fatigue, menstrual cramps, inflammation, edema, digestive problems, and similar discomforts.
Who Should Avoid Cupping Therapy?
Cupping therapy may not be suitable for everyone and is not recommended for:
- Pregnant and breastfeeding women.
- Individuals with pacemakers.
- Women during menstruation.
- Individuals over 70 years old with chronic heart problems.
- Recently operated individuals.
- Those with advanced anemia.
- Kidney patients.
- Cancer patients.
- Individuals with blood clotting problems.
Precautions Before and After Cupping Therapy
Before undergoing cupping therapy:
- Individuals should be semi-fasting.
- Eating and drinking should be stopped at least 3 hours before the procedure.
- Sexual activity should be avoided for 24 hours before the session.
- Foods that increase blood sugar should be avoided.
- The body should be rested and alert.
- Medications that alter blood viscosity should be stopped 12 hours before the procedure.
After cupping therapy:
- Heavy meals should be avoided for the first 2 hours.
- Sleep should be avoided for the first 2 hours.
- A lukewarm shower can be taken 12 hours after the procedure.
- Sexual activity and strenuous physical activities should be avoided for the first 24 hours.
In addition to these general precautions, the attending professional will provide more detailed instructions based on individual needs.
Cupping Dates
Individuals interested in cupping therapy can undergo the procedure at any time. However, some individuals prefer to schedule it on specific dates based on the Hijri calendar:
- Cupping can be done between the 5th and 25th days of the Hijri month.
- Recommended days for cupping are the 17th, 19th, and 21st days of the Hijri month.
For more information about cupping therapy, please contact our clinic.