Cupping is a cleansing technique often practiced by Oriental Medical Practitioners. It helps to break up congestion and relieve pain in the area being treated. It can be especially useful for persons with edema, asthma, arthritis, and other painful or congested placed on the body. I have seen it done most often on the back.

A vacuum is created in small jars/cups using a candle or a special machine (made for this purpose). These cups are then placed on the area being treated for 5 to 20 minutes. The process will create *temporary* bruise marks on the area being treated. When I had it done, I found it very slightly painful.

I recommend you have it done by an experienced practitioner. If you want to try it yourself (with the assistance of a friend), there is a set of instructions in the following book:

    The Herbs of Life
    by Lesley Tierra
   

Moxibustion for common symtoms
You can purchase the specially-designed cups from:

    Oriental Medical Supplies
    1950 Washington St.
    Braintree, MA 02184
    (800) 323-1839

Neti

One other note: It is obviously better not to use
chlorinated and possibly contaminated tap water for
this process. Use spring water or distilled water.