About this therapy
Cupping is a traditional therapy in which cups are placed on the skin to create gentle suction, usually on the back and shoulders.
Temporary circular marks are common after a session and usually fade within days. Your therapist will explain aftercare.
What to expect
- Traditional suction technique
- Aftercare explained
- Often paired with massage or acupressure
What is cupping?
Cupping is an ancient therapy in which cups made of glass, silicone, plastic or bamboo are placed on the skin to create suction. The suction gently lifts skin and muscle into the cup. Versions of cupping are found in traditional Chinese medicine, in Greco-Arab (Unani) medicine, where wet cupping is known as hijama, and in folk traditions across Asia, Europe and the Middle East.
Types of cupping
- Dry cupping. Cups create suction and are left in place for a few minutes. This is the most common form.
- Moving (sliding) cupping. Oil is applied and the therapist glides the cups along the muscles, like a massage.
- Wet cupping (hijama). The skin is lightly pricked and blood is drawn into the cup. Please ask the clinic whether wet cupping is offered and, if so, what precautions apply.
What happens in a session
- The therapist checks your health history, skin and medicines.
- You lie face down or sit, with the back or shoulders uncovered.
- Cups are placed using a hand pump, a squeeze bulb or, in fire cupping, a brief flame to warm the air inside. You feel a tight, pulling sensation.
- Cups are left for around 5 to 15 minutes or moved over oiled skin.
- Cups are released gently, and the area may be massaged.
About the marks
Round marks, from pink to dark purple, are common after cupping. They come from small blood vessels under the skin and usually fade within a few days to two weeks. They are not bruises from a blow, and they are not "toxins" coming out. If you have an event or photographs planned, mention it so placement can be chosen.
Who may consider it
- People with tight, tired muscles in the back, neck and shoulders.
- People who enjoy deep, hands-on therapies.
- People looking for a complementary option alongside exercise and yoga.
What the research says
NCCIH notes that research on cupping is limited and much of it is low in quality, though some studies suggest it may help with pain such as neck and low-back pain. Side effects are usually mild (marks, soreness and, rarely, skin infection or burns).
Further reading
Health concerns this may be part of
Sessions and fees
How many sessions you need, how long each one takes and how often to come are planned at your first consultation, based on your health history and goals. The clinic confirms the fee before your plan starts, and accepts cash, UPI, cards and bank transfer.
Frequently asked questions
Does cupping hurt?
Most people feel a strong pulling or tightness rather than pain. Suction can be reduced if it feels too strong.
How long do cupping marks last?
Usually from a few days up to about two weeks, depending on your skin and the strength of suction.
Is hijama available?
Please ask the clinic whether wet cupping (hijama) is currently offered and what precautions apply. Dry and moving cupping are the most common forms.
What should I do after cupping?
Keep the area warm and covered, drink water, avoid very hot showers, saunas or intense exercise for the rest of the day, and tell the clinic if a mark becomes painful, hot or blistered.
Cupping Therapy in Vasant Kunj, New Delhi
Arogyam Sutra is a nature cure and naturopathy clinic in Vasant Kunj, New Delhi. Consultations and therapies take place at the clinic, and you can request a time online, call or send a WhatsApp message.
Sector C 9, Library, Near Community Center, Vasant Kunj, New Delhi 110070
Get directions +91 99589 11321 · +91 98686 76595Contact page and mapClinic timings
- Monday – Friday
- 10:00 am – 2:00 pm · 5:00 pm – 9:00 pm
- Saturday & Sunday
- 10:00 am – 2:00 pm · 4:00 pm – 8:00 pm