Cupping Enhances Skin, Mood, and Mobility
Cupping therapy, known as Hijama in the Unani system of medicine, has been practiced for centuries across cultures from ancient Chinese traditions to Greco-Arab healing philosophies. In recent years, it has gained popularity in Kashmir, where it is often sought for detoxification. However, its therapeutic role extends far beyond that and must be understood within its limitations. It is important to recognize that cupping is not a treatment for every disease. While it offers benefits such as restoring physiological balance, enhancing circulation, and supporting the body’s natural detoxification processes, it should be viewed as a complementary therapy, not a standalone cure. Today, cupping is receiving renewed attention within integrative medicine as a supportive practice that aligns with holistic wellness principles. It should be strictly performed by trained professionals so that cupping integrates into broader health strategies to contribute meaningfully to overall well-being.
The procedure involves creating suction on the skin using cups made of glass, silicone, or bamboo. This suction gently lifts the skin and underlying tissues, stimulating blood flow, activating lymphatic drainage, and triggering the body’s innate healing mechanisms. Historically, cupping was believed to remove stagnant blood and toxins. Contemporary science offers a more detailed explanation, attributing its benefits to improved microcirculation, reduction of inflammatory markers, and modulation of oxidative stress.
Detoxification is a vital physiological process, especially in the context of modern lifestyles that expose individuals to processed foods, environmental pollutants, chronic stress, and sedentary habits. This can manifest as fatigue, inflammation, and metabolic sluggishness. Cupping therapy, when performed correctly, may support these natural detox pathways by enhancing circulatory dynamics and promoting lymphatic clearance.
Scientific literature provides growing evidence for the therapeutic effects of cupping. A systematic review published in Complementary Therapies in Medicine (2019) demonstrated that cupping improves microcirculation, potentially aiding in the removal of metabolic waste. A clinical trial in the Journal of Acupuncture and Meridian Studies (2013) found that wet cupping significantly reduced oxidative stress and serum uric acid levels, suggesting detoxification benefits. Furthermore, research in the Journal of Traditional and Complementary Medicine (2018) highlighted cupping’s role in stimulating immune and lymphatic activity, which contributes to cellular waste clearance. A 2015 review in BMJ (British Medical Journal) concluded that cupping may relieve chronic pain and inflammation - supporting recovery when administered by trained professionals.
Cupping therapy is been studied increasingly in recent years, especially for its effects on pain management, skin and chronic conditions. Here’s a breakdown of what the scientific data says, “Massage cupping, a variation where cups are gently moved across the skin, offers additional benefits by stimulating sensory nerve endings and activating the parasympathetic nervous system. This process fosters relaxation and triggers the release of neurochemicals such as endorphins, serotonin, dopamine, and oxytocin. These chemicals are associated with pain relief, mood enhancement, emotional balance, and stress reduction. Research confirms that massage cupping can reduce cortisol levels and elevate endorphin activity, contributing not only to physical relief but also to emotional well-being.”
Cupping therapy offers a variety of benefits for skin health, many of which are supported by emerging scientific evidence. One of its primary effects is the enhancement of blood flow, which increases microcirculation and delivers essential nutrients and oxygen to skin tissues promoting repair, vitality, and a healthy glow. The suction created during cupping also improves tissue elasticity by lifting the skin and fascia, reducing stiffness and aiding mobility. When combined with treatments like microneedling, cupping may stimulate collagen production, contributing to skin rejuvenation and improved texture. Additionally, cupping has shown promise in reducing inflammation, making it potentially beneficial for managing skin conditions such as acne, eczema, psoriasis and herpes zoster. Its role in lymphatic detoxification helps clear cellular waste and toxins from skin tissues, which can reduce puffiness and improves skin.
Beyond physical effects, cupping activates sensory nerves that modulate pain and discomfort in the skin and underlying muscles. It also promotes the release of neurochemicals like endorphins, which enhance mood, reduce stress, and contribute to overall relaxation and well-being. When integrated into a holistic skincare routine and performed by trained professionals, cupping therapy can be a powerful tool for supporting both the health and appearance of the skin.
Cupping therapy, particularly wet cupping, has shown promising benefits in managing pain management, especially for joint discomfort and backaches. Clinical studies have highlighted that wet cupping can significantly reduce oxidative stress by lowering markers like malondialdehyde (MDA) and increasing antioxidant enzymes such as superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT). Additionally, it has been found to decrease serum uric acid levels, which is particularly beneficial for individuals suffering from gout or other joint-related conditions.
The therapy also modulates inflammatory cytokines like IL-6 and TNF-α, contributing to reduced pain and improved mobility. Patients undergoing wet cupping often report enhanced quality of life and relief from chronic pain conditions such as migraines, neck stiffness, and osteoarthritis. While more researches are going on to fully understand its mechanisms, wet cupping remains a valuable complementary approach in holistic pain management.
Despite its therapeutic potential, cupping must be approached with caution and professionalism. Within the Unani system, the effectiveness of Hijama depends on accurate diagnosis, appropriate technique, and careful timing elements that only qualified Unani physicians and certified practitioners can ensure. The rise of unregulated practices and exaggerated claims has led to a distorted public perception, portraying cupping as a universal remedy for all ailments. This false narrative undermines the credibility of Unani medicine and poses serious risks to patient safety. It is essential that public health policies, professional standards, and community education work together to preserve the authenticity of traditional healing while protecting individuals from misinformation and harm.
Can Cupping Therapy Detoxify the Body?
Yes, but with an important caveat. Cupping therapy does not directly detoxify the body in the conventional medical sense, but it can support the body’s natural cleansing processes. By enhancing circulation, reducing inflammatory load, and stimulating the release of feel-good chemicals like endorphins, cupping contributes to overall physiological balance and well-being. When performed by qualified professionals and combined with healthy lifestyle choices such as hydration, nutrition, and exercise. It may serve as a valuable adjunct in holistic health strategies.
In simple terms as I may say - Cupping stimulates, lifestyle sustains.
Dr Mir Waleed Mansoor is a medical professional and Chairman - Hair of Kashmir – Aesthetic & Regimental Wellness Clinic in Srinagar
