Cupping
Cupping is a therapeutic technique that requires vessels to create a suction force on one’s skin’s surface, to pull out bad Qi and increase blood flow in the targeted area.
Traditionally practiced with fire and glass vessels (Fire Cupping), it is an important modality within Traditional Chinese Medicine.
Cupping may leave pink or dark red bruise-like marks on the skin, typically goes away within 3-14 days.
Gua Sha
Gua Sha uses a smooth edged tool, traditionally done with porcelain spoons, ox horns, etc., to stroke the skin surface with pressure, to draw out stagnate Qi.
This modality is traditionally practiced on children to help reduce fevers.
The Gua Sha motion raises small, red or dark red, rash-like dots to the skin, it is called Sha in Traditional Chinese Medicine. The Sha typically goes away in 3-7 days.
Ear Seed
Ear seed is an alternative way to auricular acupuncture. Small herbal seeds, or metal beads, with waterproof medical tapes, are placed and left on the auricular points from 3 - 7 days. They provide consistent stimulation to the auricular points while on the ear.
Ear seed is often used to support treatment in anxiety, depression, digestive issues, pain, substance abuse, etc.
Ear seed does not hurt, it does not penetrate the skin, however, tenderness are common.