Where on the abdomen should cupping be performed for bloating?

Nov 10, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Sun Lianqing

Introduction

When experiencing abdominal bloating, cupping can be applied to acupoints on the abdomen such as Zhongwan (CV12), Tianshu (ST25), Guanyuan (CV4), Qihai (CV6), and Daheng (SP15). Zhongwan (CV12) is located on the upper abdomen, on the anterior midline, 4 cun above the umbilicus. As the Mu-point of the stomach, stimulating Zhongwan with cupping helps regulate stomach qi, promote digestion, and relieve food stagnation, thereby improving upper abdominal bloating caused by impaired stomach qi or food accumulation.

1. **Zhongwan (CV12)**: Located in the upper abdomen, on the anterior midline, 4 cun above the umbilicus. This point is the Mu-point of the stomach. Cupping at Zhongwan helps regulate stomach qi, promote digestion, and relieve food stagnation. It effectively alleviates upper abdominal bloating caused by impaired stomach function or indigestion, reducing symptoms such as post-meal fullness and belching.

2. **Tianshu (ST25)**: Found bilaterally at the level of the umbilicus, 2 cun lateral to the anterior midline. This point is the Mu-point of the large intestine. Cupping here helps regulate the flow of qi in the large intestine and enhances intestinal motility. It relieves bloating around the navel caused by intestinal gas accumulation, especially when accompanied by constipation or diarrhea, aiding in restoring normal bowel function.

3. **Guanyuan (CV4)**: Situated in the lower abdomen, on the anterior midline, 3 cun below the umbilicus. This point strengthens vital energy (qi), regulates blood, and promotes the smooth flow of qi. Cupping stimulation at Guanyuan improves lower abdominal bloating due to stagnation in the lower jiao, particularly suitable for cases with distension in the lower abdomen, difficulty passing gas, or a sensation of heaviness. It also helps regulate blood and qi circulation in the abdomen.

4. **Qihai (CV6)**: Located in the lower abdomen, on the anterior midline, 1.5 cun below the umbilicus. Qihai has functions of tonifying and regulating qi, as well as warming and unblocking the meridians. Cupping at this point activates its effects, relieving abdominal bloating caused by qi deficiency and improving poor qi circulation. It also strengthens the functional activity of abdominal organs, helping reduce recurrent episodes of bloating.

5. **Daheng (SP15)**: Positioned bilaterally at the level of the umbilicus, 4 cun lateral to the anterior midline. This point belongs to the Spleen Meridian. Cupping stimulation at Daheng benefits the spleen and stomach, regulates qi, and relieves abdominal distension. It is especially effective for generalized or lateral abdominal bloating caused by spleen-stomach weakness and impaired digestive function, helping to alleviate associated symptoms such as poor appetite.

When using cupping for abdominal bloating, proper pressure and duration should be controlled. Cupping should generally last 10–15 minutes, avoiding excessive suction that may damage the skin. Individuals with skin injuries, redness, swelling, or allergies, as well as pregnant women and women during menstruation, should avoid abdominal cupping.

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Why should pregnant women use winter melon and pork rib soup with caution?

Pregnant women should use caution when consuming winter melon and pork rib soup, as winter melon is inherently cold in nature and may impair the spleen and stomach, excessive consumption may lead to diarrhea and bloating, the high purine content could affect metabolism, the fatty pork ribs may increase digestive burden, and those with edema-prone constitutions should control their intake. Consumption should be adjusted according to individual physical condition. If abdominal pain, diarrhea, or other discomfort occurs after eating, prompt medical attention is recommended.