In the Sui Dynasty (AD 581-618) and the Tang Dynasty (AD 618-907), the cupping implement was improved, and a bamboo jar replaced animal horns. It gradually developed in the Southern and Northern Dynasties (AD 420-581), was a Taoist medical practice and was widely used in the courts of Imperial China. Historical records on cupping date back to the Qin Dynasty (221-206 BC), when it was called horn therapy. According to the theory of traditional Chinese medicine, the ensuing vacuum and the effect of suction helps draw out inner toxins, promotes the flow of 'qi' and blood and unblocks channels called meridians, easing swelling and reducing pain. The traditional Chinese therapy of cupping includes creating a vacuum by burning a wick inside a jar and quickly placing the jar on the selected area. The effect of suction helps draw out inner toxins, promotes the flow of 'qi' and blood and unblocks channels called meridians, easing swelling and reducing pain.
