cupping therapy (ct) is an ancient method and currently used in the treatment of a broad range of medical conditions. nonetheless the mechanism of action of (ct) is not fully understood. this review aimed to identify possible mechanisms of action of (ct) from modern medicine perspective and offer possible explanations of its effects. muscle relaxation, changes in local tissue structures and increase in blood circulation might be explained by “nitric oxide theory”. immunological effects and hormonal adjustments might be attributed to “activation of immune system theory”.