Cupping refers to the placing of glass cups on to the body surface after a vacuum has been generated inside them. This causes the cups to strongly attach themselves to the skin. Cupping therapy has the action of promoting the circulation of blood and qi in the area. Cupping will alleviate stagnation of qi and blood which is often associated to joint and muscle pain that occurs after injury to an area. Cupping can also be used to draw out toxins present in the body and even help to reduce the severity of colds and flu.