=Cupping.=--By the application of “cups,” blood is drawn to the surface, but ordinarily not abstracted, unless the surfaces have been previously scarified or incised. _Dry cupping_ has the effect of attracting blood to one portion of the body, thus drawing it from another and congested part. It has the temporary effect of a venesection. Cupping glasses are small tumblers which are rinsed in alcohol; their edges are wiped and the remaining film within the glass is ignited from a candle or flame. The glass is then instantly applied to the affected area. The oxygen within the contained air is sufficiently consumed to create a slight vacuum and the skin quickly becomes congested, being sucked upward into the glass. These cups may be allowed to remain for a few moments, or until they drop off. Care should be exercised with alcohol and a lighted lamp around a patient who may be unconscious or excitable, as serious burns have followed carelessness in this regard. Small vacuum pumps, like the Allen surgical pump, have been provided for this purpose, and give very satisfactory results. There was formerly employed for the purpose of _wet cupping_ a small spring instrument, containing several sharp knives, by which a series of incisions were made in order that blood might be drawn. This instrument cannot be kept clean and is not used at present. When wet cupping is desired the part should be scarified with a sharp knife and the cup applied as above. =Leeching.=--Leeches figure largely in literature of the past, but are not often used, although they may be made effective, especially when applied behind the ears in cases of cerebral congestion. The American leech can be relied on only to abstract about a teaspoonful of blood, while the Swedish will draw three or four times that amount. The region to which they are applied must be washed, and, if necessary, shaved. The part should then be smeared with milk, blood, or sugar-water. The leeches should be put in a basin of fresh water, after which they are placed upon a dry towel for two or three minutes. Each one is then taken up in a small glass or test-tube and inverted over the spot chosen. As soon as the animal fastens itself upon the skin the glass may be removed. Leeches are often capricious and will sometimes wait considerable time before attaching themselves. When full of blood they usually relax and drop. If it be desired to remove them a little salt will make them relax. Leeches should never be applied over loose cellular tissue nor over superficial vessels or nerves. If used in the interior of a cavity they should be prevented from passing too far. COUNTERIRRITATION.