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Cupping therapy

Cupping therapy

by | 2424,Aug, 2023 | Traditional chinese medicine

Relax and detoxify with cupping therapy

Cupping therapy is an ancient technique adopted by the Egyptians, Greeks, Romans, and Chinese. Rediscovered and praised by Hippocrates, it was practiced by our grandmothers until the end of World War I, before the advent of antibiotics.

Used in China as a healing method for thousands of years, this technique has evolved over time to become part of the arsenal used by Chinese doctors. Cupping therapy aims to balance the flow of vital energy (qi) in the body. Cupping is used to stimulate blood circulation, lymph, and energy in the body.

The suction cup draws pathogenic factors such as wind, cold, and heat to the surface, thereby draining and eliminating them. This is what makes this technique effective for colds and bronchitis. By drawing blood to the surface, cupping also relieves pain associated with muscle tension or stiffness, as it releases the blood stasis that causes this pain.

Formerly made of cow horn or bamboo, cupping cups are now most often made of glass, plastic, or plexiglass.

How does the suction cup work?

According to the principles of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), pain at an acupuncture point is a sign of dysfunction in the corresponding organ. Cupping is performed on the skin at acupuncture points along the meridians, specifically at points that are painful.

Applying one or more cupping glasses releases blockages in the organ, helping to relax and relieve congestion.

The vacuum under the glass cup is created by burning oxygen with a flame, or in more modern versions, using a manual pump on plastic cups. The cups can be fixed on the body’s tension points, or moved around as a massage tool on oiled skin.

Some patients like to receive cupping treatment once a week as a preventive measure.

In cases of stress, joint or muscle pain, upon waking, before sleeping, before physical exertion, or after intense exercise, cupping will always be useful for providing relief and making our patients’ days more comfortable.

Cupping causes blood to rise to the surface, which is generally a sign of many impurities. The bruise will be visible for 2 to 4 days. As the sessions progress, the bruise will fade.

Cupping is an effective aid, complementing ongoing treatment, such as acupuncture. In cases of acute pain or crisis, it can be used more regularly.

The different cupping techniques

The techniques used for cupping vary depending on the suction method, suction power, area treated, other materials used with the cups, etc. The techniques include:

  • Dry cupping:
    A vacuum is created inside the cups using fire or a manual pump. Dry cupping is also known as static cupping.
  • Mobile (massage):
    Oil is applied to the skin and the cups are moved with low suction. Massage cups are also called dynamic cups, sliding cups, and mobile cups.
    Flash (or empty cups):
    The cups are applied for a short period of time, less than 30 seconds at a time. This is also known as empty cupping.
  • Wet:
    The skin is lightly pierced before applying the cups. This method is also known as blood cupping.
  • Herbal:
    The practitioner boils a herbal solution, dips bamboo cups into it, and applies the slightly cooled cups to the skin.

It should be noted that techniques are evolving towards magnetic or electrical systems. As far as we are concerned, we are keen to maintain traditional techniques.

The benefits of cupping

In general, the influx of blood to the area where the cup is placed will drain toxins. The suction effect activates blood circulation where the cup is placed.

This localized congestion reduces pain, releases blockages, accelerates the recovery of tired muscles, and improves tissue repair.

Cupping therapy is known to relieve discomfort and improve quality of life. The following conditions may improve with this technique:

  • Low back pain. Cupping helps reduce pain and improve function in people with acute and chronic low back pain.
  • Fibromyalgia. Cupping therapy, alone or with acupuncture, helps relieve pain in patients with fibromyalgia.
      • Chronic neck pain. Cupping therapy helps relax the neck muscles and make them more flexible.
      • Heavy menstrual bleeding. Dry cupping helps reduce the amount of menstrual blood flow in women with menorrhagia.

      Cupping therapy also shows improvements in:

      •  digestive problems,
      • lung and respiratory tract diseases, including bronchitis, asthma, and pneumonia,
      • high blood pressure,
      • cellulite,
      • tendinitis,
      • sprains,
      • cramps,
      • sports recovery,
      • stress,
      • sleep disorders,
      • skin problems.

      A cupping session

      Tuina

      Tuina

      by | 3131,Jul, 2023 | Traditional chinese medicine

      An ancient energy technique

      According to ancient Chinese beliefs, animals practiced massage long before humans did. They used it for comfort, grooming, and even healing. It was therefore only natural that humans, due to their animal instincts, used massage on themselves, their children, or their partners. We are all familiar with the reflex to immediately rub an area of our own body after receiving a blow.

      Thus, Chinese massage is considered to be the oldest branch of Chinese medicine. Massage techniques have evolved; they have been refined and systematized over the centuries. Tuī Ná is the culmination of this science, born from this natural instinctive gesture.

      Ancient writings dating back to the Shang Dynasty (1800 BCE) describe massage methods for treating infants.

      The most famous ancient text on Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), Huang Di Nei Jing (The Yellow Emperor’s Classic of Internal Medicine), completed between the first century BCE and the first century CE, includes passages on the use of these massage techniques and their use in the treatment of certain diseases.

      Chinese massage is listed as a major treatment method. Since the Wei and Jin dynasties (220–420 CE), Tuī Ná massage departments have been official specialties in the Chinese government’s healthcare system.

      A branch of TCM

      Tuī Ná, literally pushing (tui – 推) and grasping (na – 拿), is a discipline in its own right within Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). It is sometimes also referred to as An Mo (按摩), which refers to massage in general and means “to calm through touch.”

      Tuī Ná massage therefore follows the Taoist principles that form the basis of this medicine, which is based on energy balance.

      The practice of Tuī Ná is therefore specific to China and takes into account meridians and acupuncture points. Tuī Ná comprises around thirty techniques and maneuvers that aim to either disperse energy blockages or stimulate or tone the qi or vital energy.

      These techniques include “mo fa,” which means circular rubbing, “Ya fa,” or overpressure, and “ma fa,” which means wiping (or rubbing). It also includes massage of certain acupuncture points (acupressure), as well as stretching and joint mobilization techniques.

      This massage, by acting on reflex zones, has the effect of balancing and stimulating both the body and mind. Its goal is to circulate and rebalance energies, which also has an impact on emotional balance since, in TCM, everything is connected. Any muscle or ligament tension will cause an energy blockage, affecting the free flow of qi and therefore overall health. Similarly, strong emotional stress can eventually lead to energy blockages and even muscle tension. This can cause pain.

      Numerous health benefits

      Tuī Ná massage is generally performed without oil, sometimes over clothing or through a piece of cotton fabric. It promotes healthy organ function, particularly through acupuncture points, thereby preventing illness. It is also effective in reducing or even eliminating muscle and joint pain.

      According to modern research, Tuī Ná is a therapy that regulates the circulatory, respiratory, endocrine, immune, and nervous systems. It also aids digestion and improves muscle and skin metabolism.

      It has been shown to be effective in, among other things:

      • Alleviating the symptoms of Parkinson’s disease
      • Reducing pain associated with fibromyalgia
      • Improving dizziness associated with cervical osteoarthritis
      • Relieving the symptoms of primary dysmenorrhea
      • Contributing to the treatment of cervical radiculopathy

      The qualities of a Tuī Ná practitioner

      It is difficult to explain in technical terms what makes a good Tuī Ná, because it is related to energy.

      This is why Tuī Ná practitioners must train for several years to integrate this energetic dimension.

      According to the tradition of Chinese medicine, they must first develop their energy through disciplines such as qi gong, tai chi, and even kung fu. These practices allow them to optimize their own vital energy and refine their sensitivity to perceive and identify the energies around them.

      They will spend time in nature, learning to understand the language of plants. They will also learn to understand and use the healing energy of sacred places. Over time, they will be able to sense stagnations of energy, as well as blood.

      A good Tuī Ná massage depends on the practitioner’s energy, their sensitivity, and their ability to transmit energy. This requires them to be firmly grounded, with flexible and relaxed joints, in order to ensure good energy flow. They must breathe deeply and fully from the abdomen. If they are tense, they will not be able to provide the same quality of energy. Their whole body is engaged in the massage.

      This is why a good Tuī Ná massage is a truly therapeutic tool that works deeply. Even though it is often painful, it is nonetheless beneficial.

      Awaken the Tuī Ná masseur within you

      Massage en couple

      We encourage everyone to find ultimate happiness. Since massage is instinctive and natural, why not give it a try? We suggest you start by working on deep relaxation and breathing. To do this, you can practice tai chi, qi gong, or any other practice that brings you to mindfulness.

      At the same time, you can start practicing Tuī Ná with your loved ones. To do this, put on loose-fitting clothes, release all your tension, and start with one technique. Don’t exceed ten minutes at first. Then debrief with your partner so that they can verbalize their feelings.

      You can get inspiration from this simple video. Feel free to spend time in nature or with your favorite animal before practicing Tuī Ná. Practicing this art will change how you feel and help you reconnect with yourself. This will gradually improve your health.

      Never practice Tuī Ná in the following cases:

      • When you are in a bad mood or upset
      • After an argument
      • When you are feeling very sad or angry
      • Immediately after your secular work
      • When you are ill

      This list is not exhaustive. As you will have understood, massage is an exchange. It is therefore with a beautiful disposition of heart that you will offer the best to those around you… and to yourself.

      Pharmacopeia

      Pharmacopeia

      by | 2929,Jun, 2023 | Traditional chinese medicine

      Powerful, tailor-made therapy

      In China, medicinal plants are considered a “national treasure” and are widely used for both preventive and curative purposes. Indeed, in its country of origin, Chinese pharmacopoeia is used as a priority therapy. It is considered more powerful than acupuncture.

      Chinese pharmacopoeia is a traditional medical system that has been developed in China for thousands of years. It is based on a holistic approach to health, aimed at restoring the balance between body and mind. It is used primarily to maintain health, but also to heal. It is a living discipline that continues to evolve over time.

      Chinese pharmacopoeia is based on a set of principles and theories that form the foundation of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). The most important of these are: Yin and Yang, Qi (vital energy), and the Five Elements (wood, fire, earth, metal and water). According to these principles, health is the result of a harmonious balance between these forces and elements. Any imbalance or obstruction in the flow of energy leads to illness.

      Before prescribing a herbal preparation, the Chinese doctor will carry out a diagnosis to assess the imbalances at the root of the patient’s symptoms. Each prescription, even if it’s based on existing recipes called formulas, will thus be tailored to each patient’s individual terrain and temperament.

      Over 100,000 formulas recorded

      Since the origins of Chinese pharmacopoeia, numerous formulas have been developed by renowned physicians. Some have been refined, while new ones have been developed over time.

      There are many treatises listing these formulas. For example, Zhu-su’s Universal Aid Prescriptions, from the Ming dynasty, contained 61,739 formulas from ancient China.

      More recently, the Dictionary of Traditional Chinese Prescriptions, compiled by Nanjing University of TCM, lists all existing formulas since the beginning of TCM. It contains more than 100,000 prescriptions!

      A formula always consists of several plants or substances. Indeed, Chinese pharmacopoeia relies on the combined effect of several plants to create a synergistic effect.

      This also minimizes the side effects that could result from taking a single plant in large quantities, or neutralizes certain toxic effects of a plant. The different substances can act on several aspects of the disease or on different organs.

      The formula thus treats the disease with the aim of balancing the whole body and correcting underlying imbalances. With this in mind, the formula will be tailored to each patient to best address their specific conditions. Similarly, depending on the progression of the disease or changes in the patient’s health, the proportions and plants used may be adjusted accordingly.

      Thousands of plants and substances

      Chinese pharmacopoeia contains several thousand substances, of which around 300 are commonly used. These substances are mainly derived from plants, but may also include other elements. For example, there are mineral substances (cinnabar, sulfur, magnetite, etc.), animal substances (bones, shells, birds’ nests, pearl powder, etc.), insects (ants, silkworms, scorpions, etc.). Medicinal preparations may also include other substances such as beeswax, honey, and resinous substances. The list is not exhaustive.

      Medicinal plants are selected based on their specific properties, flavor, nature, and interactions with the body’s organs.

      Chinese pharmacopoeia takes into account contraindications and potential interactions between different medicinal herbs.

      A formula is developed with particular attention to “the specific combination of the Monarch, Minister, Assistant, and Guide.” The Monarch remedy is the essential ingredient in the formula, responsible for curing the main symptom being treated.

      The Minister reinforces the healing effect of the Monarch; the Assistant works with the first two to enhance their therapeutic effects and make them more tolerable. Finally, the Guide directs the effects of the other herbs to the organs to be treated and regulates the properties of the other herbs.

      Chinese pharmacopoeia uses various methods of preparing medicinal herbs, such as decoctions (Tāng), infusions (Zhǒu), powders (Sǎn), tinctures (Jiǔ), and pills/tablets (Wàn). Decoctions are the most common.

      A treatment not suitable for self-medication

      It may seem obvious, but it is worth reiterating. Chinese medicine is effective, but it must be prescribed wisely, following a Chinese medicine diagnosis. Indeed, a disease, according to Western medicine criteria, may present different pathological pictures in Chinese medicine. This is why each patient will be prescribed a formula tailored to their individual case.

      Furthermore, Chinese medicine considers that a disease evolves over time. This is why treatments vary rapidly throughout the course of care. A patient’s condition changes from day to day.

      Medicinal plants are then adapted according to the patient’s evolving diagnosis. This is why, even if a patient has taken a formula a few weeks or months ago and it has been beneficial, it will not necessarily be suitable if certain symptoms—which appear similar—return. The patient is strongly advised to consult their Chinese doctor again.

      Bitter-tasting remedies?

      If herbal medicine is the most widely used form of Chinese medicine, it is because of its effectiveness. The Chinese are pragmatic and are not interested in pampering themselves, but rather in treating their ailments. Many Westerners are more sensitive to the comfort aspect of a treatment. Yes, it must be effective, but it should also be as pleasant—or at least as unobtrusive—as possible.

      While acupuncture may scare some people, Chinese decoctions are often much worse! Some people don’t even have the courage to swallow them, while others throw them in the trash. Western noses and palates have undoubtedly become too discerning for their own health…

      Beyond individual tastes and dislikes, the taste of a preparation varies greatly from one formula to another, ranging from rather sweet to very bitter. The decoction is usually consumed twice a day. Preparing a decoction takes a certain amount of time, which can also put some people off. However, many Chinese pharmacies now cook them and deliver them vacuum-packed to their customers.