Cupping is an ancient healing practice that has been used in various cultures for thousands of years. Its exact origins are unknown, but it is believed to have originated in China, where it has been used for over 2,000 years.
The earliest written record of cupping can be found in an ancient Chinese medical text called the “Bo Shu,” which dates back to the Han Dynasty (206 BCE to 220 CE). The text describes how cupping was used to treat a variety of ailments, including respiratory problems, gastrointestinal disorders, and musculoskeletal pain.
Over time, cupping spread to other parts of the world, including the Middle East, Europe, and Africa. In the Middle East, cupping became a popular treatment for a range of conditions, and was even used by the Prophet Muhammad. In Europe, cupping was used during the Middle Ages to treat a variety of ailments, including the bubonic plague.
In the 19th and 20th centuries, cupping fell out of favor in the Western world as modern medicine became more dominant. However, it has experienced a resurgence in popularity in recent years, particularly among athletes and celebrities who have popularized the practice.
Today, cupping is used by a variety of health professionals, including acupuncturists, massage therapists, and chiropractors, to treat a range of conditions, including pain, inflammation, and stress.