Gua Sha

Gua Sha is a treatment technique within Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). It is particularly widespread in Asia.

What is Gua Sha?

This folk healing treatment combines the Chinese terms Gua meaning “to scrape” and Sha meaning “acute illness.” It is a massage technique in which the skin is stimulated to promote blood circulation. Various objects with a rounded edge can be used, such as a coin, a porcelain soup spoon, or a jade stone. The pressure of the scraper on the previously oiled skin opens the superficial blood vessels, resulting in what are called blood stasis marks, which cause discoloration of the treated areas.

How the scraping technique works

Gua Sha is effective both through the use of oil and through the stimulation of the skin. Tiger balm is often used as the oil, but other oils, for example based on St. John’s wort, are also common. The oil is intended to ventilate the meridians, refresh the blood, and release blockages. The scraping on the skin causes superficial irritation that activates the function of the lymph nodes. These then work to remove waste and toxins from the body. In addition, the treatment has a relaxing effect and activates the immune system. The irritation in the tissue can also lead to minor bleeding. Particularly dark discoloration is an indication of a large number of toxins in the body. The marks and redness typically subside within a few days. During this time, detoxification occurs. Patients often feel tired and may experience increased urination. It is therefore important to rest and drink plenty of fluids in the first few days after Gua Sha treatment.

Areas of application

This special massage technique is used in many ways in TCM. Typical applications include headaches, migraines, colds, fever, back pain, and shoulder and neck tension. Gua Sha can also provide relief for tendon and ligament relaxation, digestive issues, and signs of paralysis. For women, treatment may help with menstrual cramps and morning sickness during pregnancy. The method is also said to have an anti-aging effect. People with allergies can also benefit from Gua Sha treatment. Since it supports the immune system, the method can also help as a preventive measure.

When caution is advised

Although TCM generally offers very gentle treatment methods, there are some contraindications for Gua Sha. The technique should not be used on fresh injuries and fractures, in areas with skin changes such as pimples or moles, or in weakened patients, for example due to heart or circulatory conditions. People with blood clotting disorders or those taking blood thinners should also avoid Gua Sha. During menstruation and pregnancy, the abdomen and lower back should not be treated. The bruises and skin discolorations that can result from the treatment might be mistaken for signs of physical abuse. Therefore, it is important for parents to inform caregivers and teachers when this technique is applied to their children to prevent misunderstandings.