Can cupping therapy be performed at the膻中 (CV17) acupoint?
Apr 16, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. He Haochen
Introduction
Zhongshen (CV17) can generally be treated with cupping, which usually helps to lower stomach qi and regulate the flow of qi, thereby relieving vomiting symptoms. It can also broaden the chest and regulate qi, promoting local blood circulation, which helps alleviate chest or abdominal pain. Additionally, it facilitates the movement of qi and unblocks the meridians, helping to relieve insufficient milk secretion caused by stagnation of qi.
Generally, cupping at the膻中 (CV17) point is acceptable and usually produces favorable effects such as relieving nausea and vomiting, broadening the chest and regulating qi, and promoting milk flow by unblocking meridians. Specific explanations are as follows:
1. Relieving Nausea and Vomiting
The膻中 point is generally located along the anterior midline of the body, close to the stomach area. Applying cupping appropriately at this site typically helps descend stomach qi and regulate qi flow, thereby alleviating symptoms of vomiting.
2. Broadening the Chest and Regulating Qi
Within traditional Chinese medicine, the膻中 point is considered a key location where qi accumulates. Performing cupping here can help broaden the chest, regulate qi circulation, and improve local blood circulation, thus aiding in relieving chest or abdominal pain.
3. Unblocking Meridians and Promoting Lactation
Since the body's meridians are interconnected and the膻中 point is near the breasts, appropriate cupping at this site can promote qi movement and unblock meridians. This may help relieve insufficient milk discharge caused by stagnation of qi.
In addition, cupping at this point may also help suppress coughing and relieve emotional depression to some extent. However, treatment should be performed by a qualified practitioner to ensure optimal therapeutic outcomes.
