Cupping therapy can be safely performed on all healthy individuals. As long as a person does not have an extremely weak constitution, cupping therapy does not cause harm. However, it is not suitable for individuals who have recently undergone surgery. At least three months should pass before cupping is considered.

Cupping is risky for individuals who have undergone organ transplants or have pacemakers. It should not be performed directly on individuals who are very anxious or frightened; the procedure should begin with very small steps in such cases.

Since wet cupping, commonly known as hijama, involves removing a certain amount of blood from the body, it is not suitable for individuals with severe anemia. As the procedure is performed on the skin, it should not be applied to active wounds. Similarly, cupping cannot be performed on lacerations caused by trauma or the tearing of tissues due to excessive force.

Cupping should not be performed on patients with decompensated heart failure, where cardiac output is insufficient to meet tissue demands. It is also not recommended for individuals with thrombophlebitis, which is the inflammation of veins, particularly in the legs. Additionally, cupping should not be applied to surgical wounds created during medical interventions, nor should it be performed on individuals with bleeding or coagulation disorders.

Cupping is not recommended for pregnant women due to the potential risks of unknown complications. Since a certain amount of blood is removed during the process, women with heavy menstrual bleeding are advised against cupping during their menstrual periods.

As cupping involves extracting blood through the skin, it should only be performed by certified medical professionals. Individuals without proper certification or qualifications should not perform cupping therapy.

How Many Cups Should Be Used During Cupping?

A standard cupping session typically involves at least five cups, as fewer than five will have minimal effect. Using more than ten cups, however, may tire the body. Extra caution should be exercised when performing cupping on individuals with low blood pressure. For those with low blood pressure, no more than three cups should be used.

Cupping should not be applied directly to varicose veins or to affected areas in individuals with skin conditions like psoriasis. For individuals who have undergone surgeries such as herniated disc operations, cupping should only be performed on the surgical site after at least three months have passed.