Wet cupping for hypertension: a systematic review and meta-analysis

ABSTRACT

To assess the efficacy and safety of wet cupping in adults with hypertension, we conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis using 13 databases. Wet cupping alone or in combination with antihypertensive medication or acupuncture was used. Seven randomized trials were included, most not of high methodological quality. A few small studies suggested that wet cupping alone versus antihypertensive medication significantly reduced blood pressure and Traditional Chinese Medicine syndrome (hypertension-related symptoms). However based on current evidence, no firm conclusions can be drawn and no clinical recommendations made. Research projects included need validation. Studies indicate that wet cupping is a safe therapy.

KEYWORDS:

• Wet cupping
• hypertension
• effect
• meta-analysis
• systematic review

Declaration of interest

The authors report no conflicts of interest. The authors alone are responsible for the content and writing of the paper.