Impact of Wet Cupping on Hematological and Inflammatory Biomarkers in Men

Abstract

Background:

Wet cupping therapy, a widely accepted form of complementary and alternative medicine, has shown promise in addressing clinical symptoms associated with inflammation. This study aimed to investigate the impact of wet cupping therapy on hematological parameters and inflammatory biomarkers in men residing in Erbil.

Methods:

 Experienced nurse practitioner performed wet cupping on participants in Erbil during April 26, 28, and 30, 2024. Data were collected from 21 healthy males aged 21-37 years. without takin any anti-inflammatory drugs or dietary supplements.  Blood samples were taken before and six weeks after wet cupping to assess changes in hematological parameters and inflammatory markers, specifically cytokines (IL-1β, IL-2, IL-6, IL-10, and IL-12), CRP, TNF-α, GM-CSF, and G-CSF.

Results:

Analysis of complete blood counts six weeks post-cupping demonstrated significant increases in total WBCs, neutrophils, lymphocytes, monocytes, RBCs, hematocrit, and hemoglobin (p = 0.05 and p = 0.01). Conversely, the MLR, PLLR, and NLR showed significant decreases (p = 0.05) compared to pre-cupping levels. Furthermore, serological analysis revealed a significant reduction in the levels of cytokines IL-1β, IL-2, IL-6, IL-10, IL-12, TNF-α, GM-CSF, G-CSF, and CRP (p = 0.05).

Conclusion: Our findings suggest that wet cupping therapy can effectively reduce inflammatory markers and improve immune function, as evidenced by the observed changes in blood parameters and cytokine levels.