Abstract Title: The medical perspective of cupping therapy: Effects and mechanisms of action. Abstract Source: J Tradit Complement Med. 2019 Apr ;9(2):90-97. Epub 2018 Apr 30. PMID: 30963043 Abstract Author(s): Abdullah M N Al-Bedah, Ibrahim S Elsubai, Naseem Akhtar Qureshi, Tamer Shaban Aboushanab, Gazzaffi I M Ali, Ahmed Tawfik El-Olemy, Asim A H Khalil, Mohamed K M Khalil, Meshari Saleh Alqaed Article Affiliation: Abdullah M N Al-Bedah Abstract: Cupping Therapy (CT) is an ancient method and currently used in the treatment of a broad range of medical conditions. Nonetheless the mechanism of action of (CT) is not fully understood. This review aimed to identify possible mechanisms of action of (CT) from modern medicine perspective and offer possible explanations of its effects. English literature in PubMed, Cochrane Library and Google Scholar was searched using key words. Only 223 articles identified, 149 records screened, and 74 articles excluded for irrelevancy. Only 75 full-text articles were assessed for eligibility, included studies in this review were 64. Six theories have been suggested to explain the effects produced by cupping therapy. Pain reduction and changes in biomechanical properties of the skin could be explained by"Pain-Gate Theory","Diffuse Noxious Inhibitory Controls"and"Reflex zone theory". Muscle relaxation, changes in local tissue structures and increase in blood circulation might be explained by"Nitric Oxide theory". Immunological effects and hormonal adjustments might be attributed to"Activation of immune system theory". Releasing of toxins and removal of wastes and heavy metals might be explained by"Blood Detoxification Theory". These theories may overlap or work interchangeably to produce various therapeutic effects in specific ailments and diseases. Apparently, no single theory exists to explain the whole effects of cupping. Further researches are needed to support or refute the aforesaid theories, and also develop innovative conceptualizations of (CT) in future. Article Published Date : Apr 01, 2019

Abstract Title: Cupping in dermatology: a critical review and update. Abstract Source: Acta Dermatovenerol Alp Pannonica Adriat. 2018 Jun ;27(2):103-107. PMID: 29945267 Abstract Author(s): Yssra Soliman, Nouran Hamed, Amor Khachemoune Article Affiliation: Yssra Soliman Abstract: Cupping is an ancient procedure that has been practiced for thousands of years. It has been used to treat a variety of medical conditions, including dermatological ones. Cupping has been described in the literature for the treatment of conditions such as acne and eczema. The procedure is fundamentally divided into dry cupping and wet cupping; however, there have been many modern adaptations. Adverse events related to the procedure have been reported in the literature and should be considered by patients. However, cupping has a promising role in helping manage dermatological conditions. Article Published Date : Jun 01, 2018

Abstract Title: Cupping therapy: A prudent remedy for a plethora of medical ailments. Abstract Source: J Tradit Complement Med. 2015 Jul ;5(3):127-34. Epub 2015 Feb 10. PMID: 26151023 Abstract Author(s): Piyush Mehta, Vividha Dhapte Article Affiliation: Piyush Mehta Abstract: Since ancient times, complementary and alternative medicine (CAM; bǔ chōng yǔ tì dài yī xué) have played an important role in human health and welfare. Many therapeutic approaches in healthcare outside the realm of conventional medicine persist in various parts of the world. There is considerable scientific and commercial potential in CAM, which needs to beexplored precisely. Cupping therapy ( bá guàn liáo fǎ), one of the CAM, is practiced across the world. This therapy is believed to act by correcting imbalances in the internal bio field, such as by restoring the flow of"Qi (qì)". Cupping involves applying a heated cup to generate a partial vacuum that mobilizes the blood flow and promotes effective healing. This review outlines various tools and techniques of cupping therapy. Article Published Date : Jul 01, 2015

Abstract Title: Effectiveness of cupping therapy for low back pain: a systematic review. Abstract Source: Acupunct Med. 2013 Sep ;31(3):336-7. Epub 2013 Jul 25. PMID: 23886511 Abstract Author(s): Chia-Yu Huang, Mun-Yau Choong, Tzong-Shiun Li Article Affiliation: Chia-Yu Huang Abstract: [n/a] Article Published Date : Sep 01, 2013

Abstract Title: Effects of cupping therapy on the pulmonary functions in asthmatic children. Abstract Source: J Tradit Chin Med. 2006 Mar ;26(1):7. PMID: 16705842 Abstract Author(s): Jiaxuan Hong, Mingli Fu, Xiaoyuan Wang, Zhifeng Gao Article Affiliation: Jiaxuan Hong Abstract: [n/a] Article Published Date : Mar 01, 2006

Abstract Title: Cupping therapy for 103 cases of high fever due to infection of the upper respiratory tract. Abstract Source: J Tradit Chin Med. 2002 Jun ;22(2):124-5. PMID: 12125487 Abstract Author(s): Yingdong Liu Article Affiliation: Yingdong Liu Abstract: [n/a] Article Published Date : Jun 01, 2002