Investigation of the effect of cupping treatment on some hematological, biochemical and reproductive hormonal parameters: The case of Southern Iraq/Missan

Cupping therapy, a traditional therapeutic practice with historical roots in various cultures, involves creating localized suction on the skin to promote blood circulation and physiological balance. This study examines the effects of cupping therapy on hematological, biochemical, and hormonal parameters in 50 patients aged 30–58 years in Missan, Iraq, between January and June 2024. The results demonstrated significant increases in red blood cell (RBC) count (5.17 × 10⁶/mcL, p = 0.0001) and white blood cell (WBC) count (8.24 × 10³/µL, p = .0001), suggesting an enhanced immune response. Hemoglobin levels increased slightly (14.80 g/dL, p = 0.06), while platelet count (224.94 × 10³/µL) and packed cell volume (PCV) levels (40.74%) showed statistically significant reductions. Improvements in lipid profile were observed, with decreases in total cholesterol (149.80 mg/dL), low-density lipoprotein (LDL) (103.66 mg/dL), and triglycerides (157.40 mg/dL, p = 0.061), while high-density lipoprotein (HDL) levels increased (45.98 mg/dL), suggesting cardiovascular benefits. Renal function markers improved, as indicated by reductions in creatinine (54.87 mg/dL), uric acid (3.69 mg/dL), and blood urea (23.98 mg/dL). Liver enzyme activity also decreased significantly, with reductions in glutamate oxaloacetate transaminase (GOT; 22.74 U/L) and glutamate pyruvate transaminase (GPT; 89.26 U/L, p = 0.001). Potassium levels increased (134.20 × 10⁶/L, p = .046), whereas sodium levels slightly decreased. Additionally, luteinizing hormone (LH) and thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) levels declined significantly (p = .001; p = 0.034), indicating potential hormonal regulation. These findings suggest that cupping therapy may have beneficial effects on blood composition, lipid metabolism, kidney and liver function, and hormonal balance, supporting its potential as a complementary therapeutic approach for overall physiological health.