Fire cupping therapy is a treatment that uses glass jars in which the air inside is heated, creating a vacuum, and then applied to the skin. The skin and superficial layer of muscle are drawn into the mouth of the jar, which opens the pores, and promotes the flow of blood and qi. Oils may be applied to the skin prior to application of the jars to facilitate their movement in a technique known as “gliding cupping”. In gliding cupping the jars are moved around the fleshy areas of the body for a massaging effect. The jars are then left in strategic areas for 5 to 15 minutes. To remove the jars, the skin next to the mouth of the jar is depressed, allowing air back into the jar. Fire cupping therapy should be avoided is the skin is inflamed, in cases of high fever, cramping or convulsions, or in conditions of easy bleeding. It should also be avoided in the abdomen or lower back during pregnancy.