Cupping is also an ancient therapy. It locally stimulates blood circulation, metabolism and the permeability of the capillaries. Its sucking effect also increases the osmotic pressure, causes   local oedema, restrains the backflow of lymph and stimulates local immune response as well. By enhancing the permeability of the capillaries it starts self-haemolysis, i.e. own blood decomposition. This has a stimulating effect on the sensory representation in the cortex.